A nurse is monitoring a client who has a leaking cerebral aneurysm. Which of the following manifestations should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP)? (Select all that apply.)
Pupillary changes
Disorientation
Headache
Slurred speech
Neck pain and stiffness
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D
Choice A reason : Pupillary changes, such as unequal pupil sizes or a sluggish reaction to light, can be a sign of increased ICP. The cranial nerves that control the pupils may be compressed due to the swelling of the brain, leading to these changes¹.
Choice B reason : Disorientation, including confusion and changes in alertness, can occur with increased ICP as the pressure affects the brain's ability to process information and maintain consciousness².
Choice C reason : Headache is a common symptom of increased ICP. It can be severe and persistent due to the pressure exerted on the meninges and blood vessels within the brain³.
Choice D reason : Slurred speech may result from increased ICP if the areas of the brain responsible for speech and muscle control are affected by the pressure².
Choice E reason : Neck pain and stiffness, particularly when trying to flex the neck forward, can be indicative of meningeal irritation, which can be associated with increased ICP⁴.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason : Methadone is an opioid used primarily for opioid maintenance therapy and to relieve severe pain, not typically for alcohol withdrawal. It does not address the specific symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal such as seizures or delirium tremens¹.
Choice B reason : Salicylates, such as aspirin, are not used to treat alcohol withdrawal. They can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in the gastrointestinal tract, which can be a concern in individuals with a history of heavy alcohol use¹.
Choice C reason : Benzodiazepines, such as chlordiazepoxide, are the first-line treatment for alcohol withdrawal. They help reduce the risk of seizures, ease withdrawal symptoms, and can prevent the progression to more severe forms of withdrawal such as delirium tremens¹².
Choice D reason : Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine with sedative properties, but it is not a first-line medication for alcohol withdrawal. While it may provide some sedation, it does not prevent seizures or other serious complications of alcohol withdrawal¹.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason : Tarry stools, also known as melena, can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, which may occur in cirrhosis due to the development of esophageal varices. However, it is not a direct symptom of cirrhosis itself but rather a complication that can arise from the condition¹.
Choice B reason : Blood in the urine is not a typical finding associated with cirrhosis. While cirrhosis can lead to problems with kidney function, hematuria is not a direct symptom of liver disease and may indicate other urological conditions¹.
Choice C reason : Moist skin is not commonly associated with cirrhosis. Patients with cirrhosis often experience skin changes, but these typically include jaundice, bruising, and spider angiomas, not increased moisture of the skin¹.
Choice D reason : Spider angiomas are a common finding in cirrhosis. They are small, spider-like capillaries visible under the skin and are caused by the increased estrogen levels that occur due to the liver's inability to metabolize hormones properly. They are most often found on the face, neck, upper chest, and arms¹².
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