A nurse is caring for a patient who was involved in a motor vehicle accident.The patient is alert and oriented and reports a loss of consciousness immediately after the accident.
Which of the following additional symptoms should the nurse assess the patient for? (Select All that Apply.)
Pupillary dilation
Persistent headache
Presence of hand tremors
Difficulty waking
Foot drop
Correct Answer : A,B,D
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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can indeed disrupt cellular function and cause blood vessel damage. This can lead to a range of potential effects, from temporary changes in brain function to long-term complications or even death.
Choice B rationale
Damage to brain tissue from decreased pressure shock waves is not typically associated with TBI. This type of injury is more commonly associated with blast injuries, such as those caused by explosions.
Choice C rationale
While increased blood supply and edema (swelling) can occur in the area of a brain injury, they are typically responses to the injury rather than direct consequences of the TBI itself. These processes can contribute to further damage and complications.
Choice D rationale
A TBI does not typically lead to increased synaptic connections. In fact, the injury can cause loss of neurons and synapses, which can lead to long-term cognitive and functional impairments.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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.
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