A nurse is caring for a client who has a traumatic brain injury and is being mechanically ventilated. Which of the following can cause unfavorable outcomes for this client?
Hyperoxia
Platelet count 250,000/mm^3
Hemoglobin 16 g/dL
Glasgow Coma Scale 16
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Hyperoxia, or high oxygen levels, can cause unfavorable outcomes for a client who has a traumatic brain injury and is being mechanically ventilated. Too much oxygen can lead to oxygen toxicity and cause damage to the lungs and other organs, including the brain.
Choice B rationale
A platelet count of 250,000/mm^3 is within the normal range and would not typically cause unfavorable outcomes for a client who has a traumatic brain injury and is being mechanically ventilated.
Choice C rationale
A hemoglobin level of 16 g/dL is within the normal range and would not typically cause unfavorable outcomes for a client who has a traumatic brain injury and is being mechanically ventilated.
Choice D rationale
A Glasgow Coma Scale score of 16 is not possible as the maximum score is 15. A higher score indicates a less severe injury, so it would not typically cause unfavorable outcomes for a client who has a traumatic brain injury and is being mechanically ventilated.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pupillary dilation can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure, which could be a result of a traumatic brain injury following a motor vehicle accident. It’s important to assess for this symptom as it may indicate a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Persistent headache is a common symptom following a head injury and can be a sign of a concussion or more serious brain injury. It’s crucial to monitor for this symptom as it can provide important information about the patient’s condition.
Choice C rationale
Presence of hand tremors is not typically associated with a head injury from a motor vehicle accident. While tremors can be a symptom of various neurological conditions, they are not commonly seen immediately after a traumatic head injury.
Choice D rationale
Difficulty waking can be a sign of a serious head injury. It could indicate a concussion or other type of traumatic brain injury. This symptom should be closely monitored as it may require immediate medical intervention.
Choice E rationale
Foot drop is not typically a symptom observed immediately after a motor vehicle accident. It’s more commonly associated with peripheral nerve conditions or stroke, rather than a head injury.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assessing muscle strength is important after a fall as it can help determine if the fall was due to muscle weakness or other neurological issues.
Choice B rationale
Checking for facial symmetry is crucial as asymmetry may indicate a stroke or other serious neurological condition.
Choice C rationale
While checking peripheral pulses is important in general, it may not be the top priority in this case unless there is a specific reason to suspect circulatory issues.
Choice D rationale
Evaluating vision changes is important as sudden vision loss or changes could indicate a serious condition such as a stroke.
Choice E rationale
Checking for aphasia, or difficulty with language, is crucial as it can be a sign of a stroke or other serious neurological condition.
Choice F rationale
Asking about smoking history may not be a priority in the immediate assessment of a patient who has just fallen.
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