A nurse is caring for a client who has suspected hemorrhagic stroke from a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. Which of the following manifestations would the nurse expect?
Gradual onset of several hours
Maintains consciousness
Neurologic deficits resolved in 1 hour
Complaints of the "worst headache of my life"
The Correct Answer is D
A) Gradual onset of several hours:
Hemorrhagic strokes, particularly those caused by a ruptured cerebral aneurysm, typically present with sudden onset of symptoms rather than a gradual onset. The symptoms of a hemorrhagic stroke generally occur immediately or within minutes after the rupture.
B) Maintains consciousness:
While some patients may remain conscious initially after a cerebral aneurysm rupture, it is common for individuals with a ruptured cerebral aneurysm to experience loss of consciousness, or at least a decreased level of consciousness. The rupture causes an increase in intracranial pressure and often results in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and confusion, and may progress to coma or unresponsiveness.
C) Neurologic deficits resolved in 1 hour:
In the case of a hemorrhagic stroke, neurologic deficits do not typically resolve quickly, particularly after the rupture of a cerebral aneurysm. Neurological deficits associated with hemorrhagic strokes may include hemiparesis, aphasia, visual disturbances, and confusion. The concept of deficits resolving within 1 hour is more indicative of a transient ischemic attack (TIA).
D) Complaints of the "worst headache of my life":
One of the classic and most characteristic symptoms of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm (leading to hemorrhagic stroke) is a severe headache, often described by the patient as the "worst headache of my life." This sudden and intense headache occurs due to the bleeding into the subarachnoid space from the aneurysm rupture, which irritates the meninges and causes intense pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Ondansetron and Metoclopramide:
Ondansetron is an antiemetic used to prevent nausea and vomiting, and Metoclopramide is a medication that promotes gastric emptying and is often used to treat nausea and gastroesophageal reflux. Neither of these medications are typically associated with ototoxicity. Ototoxicity is more commonly seen with medications that affect the inner ear or auditory pathways, particularly those that are used in high doses or over extended periods.
B) Aspirin and ibuprofen:
Both aspirin (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, NSAID) and ibuprofen are associated with ototoxicity, especially when used in high doses or over prolonged periods. Ototoxicity from NSAIDs can result in symptoms such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or even hearing loss. This occurs due to their impact on the cochlea and auditory nerve.
C) Metoprolol and Furosemide:
Metoprolol is a beta-blocker used for managing hypertension, heart failure, and other cardiovascular conditions, and Furosemide is a diuretic often used to treat conditions such as heart failure and edema. Neither of these drugs is typically associated with ototoxicity. However, high doses of furosemide, particularly when given rapidly or intravenously, may be associated with transient hearing loss.
D) Pantoprazole and Docusate Sodium:
Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux and ulcers. Docusate sodium is a stool softener used to treat constipation. Neither of these medications is known to cause ototoxicity. These drugs generally do not affect hearing or the auditory system.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Use the 3-second markers to count the number of QRS complexes in 6 seconds and multiply by 10:
The 3-second markers on the ECG strip represent a fixed time interval. By counting the number of QRS complexes in the 6-second interval (i.e., two 3-second markers), you can estimate the heart rate by multiplying the number of QRS complexes by 10. This method is quick and effective for calculating heart rate in an emergency setting, such as in arrhythmias or when time is of the essence.
B) Print a 1-minute ECG strip and count the number of QRS complexes:
While this is another way to assess the heart rate, it is not a quick method, especially in emergency situations. It is more time-consuming because it involves printing out a full strip (or ensuring you have enough data to calculate a full minute). This approach may be useful for detailed analysis but is not optimal for quickly estimating the ventricular rhythm.
C) Calculate the number of small squares between one QRS complex and the next one and divide by 1500:
This method is more complex and is used for calculating the heart rate with a more precise ECG reading. It requires counting the number of small squares between two QRS complexes and dividing by 1500 (the number of small squares in one minute). This method is accurate but not the fastest option for quickly estimating the heart rate during an emergency.
D) Count the number of large squares in the R-R interval and divide by 300:
counting the number of large squares between two R-R intervals and dividing by 300, you get the heart rate. However, this method is less commonly used in emergency situations because it requires more time and may not be as immediate as using the 3-second markers. It is more applicable when doing a detailed analysis of the rhythm.
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