A nurse is collecting data from a client who has a subdural hematoma following a motor-vehicle crash. For which of the following findings should the nurse identify that the client is experiencing an increase in intracranial pressure?

Choice A Reason:
Using a fire extinguisher at the source of the smoke is not appropriate. While using a fire extinguisher could potentially help contain a small fire, it's crucial to prioritize rescuing those in immediate danger and alerting others about the fire first by activating the fire alarm. This action ensures that help is on the way and that everyone is aware of the emergency.
Choice B Reason:
Closing the doors to the room and to the bathroom is not appropriate. Closing doors can help contain smoke and fire to some extent, but again, the priority in an emergency situation like this is to rescue those in immediate danger then activate the fire alarm to ensure a swift response and alert others.
Choice C Reason:
Activate the fire alarm system is appropriate. Activating the fire alarm alerts others in the facility and initiates the emergency response protocol, helping to ensure that help is on the way while potentially preventing the spread of fire. However, this step should be taken after assisting the client to safety as they are in immediate danger.
Choice D Reason:
Assisting the client who is in immediate danger to a nearby common area should be the furst step that the nurse takes before alerting other people of the fire. (RACE protocol)

Choice A Reason:

Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, is typically associated with liver dysfunction or conditions affecting the breakdown of red blood cells, not directly linked to Cushing's syndrome. While some liver abnormalities can be seen in Cushing's syndrome due to metabolic changes, jaundice is not a typical manifestation of this condition.

Choice B Reason:

Muscle rigidity is more commonly associated with conditions like Parkinson's disease, dystonia, or certain muscle disorders. In Cushing's syndrome, muscle weakness due to protein breakdown and muscle wasting is a more expected finding rather than muscle rigidity.

Choice C Reason:

Weight loss is incorrect. Weight gain, particularly in the central part of the body (trunk) and face (creating a "moon face"), is a more common characteristic of Cushing's syndrome. The excess cortisol often leads to increased fat deposits, especially in these areas, rather than weight loss.

Cushing's syndrome is characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body, either due to the body producing too much cortisol or from long-term use of corticosteroid medications. Considering this condition, the nurse should expect the following finding:

Choice D Reason:

Easily bruised is correct. Excess cortisol can lead to the thinning of the skin and weakening of blood vessels, making individuals with Cushing's syndrome prone to easy bruising. Other common findings associated with Cushing's syndrome include weight gain (especially in the trunk and face), muscle weakness, high blood pressure, fatigue, and changes in skin such as thinning and purple stretch marks.