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 : White beans do not have a significant interaction with warfarin. They are a good source of protein and fiber and can be included in the diet unless otherwise contraindicated.
Choice B reason : Cantaloupe does not interact significantly with warfarin and can be consumed as part of a balanced diet. It is rich in vitamins and hydration.
Choice C reason : Cabbage contains vitamin K, which can interfere with the effectiveness of warfarin. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, and warfarin works by inhibiting the effects of this vitamin. Therefore, patients on warfarin are advised to maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K and avoid sudden increases in foods high in this nutrient.
Choice D reason : Green beans have a moderate amount of vitamin K but are not typically restricted for patients on warfarin. It is important for patients to maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K; thus, they should not make significant changes to their diet without consulting their healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : In end-stage kidney disease, the kidneys are unable to excrete excess fluid, leading to fluid overload or hypervolemia. This condition can manifest as shortness of breath due to pulmonary edema, swelling in the lower extremities, and crackles in the lungs upon auscultation. Elevated blood pressure is also a common finding in hypervolemia due to the increased volume of fluid in the bloodstream⁵⁶⁷⁸.
Choice B reason : Hypovolemia, or decreased blood volume, is not consistent with the symptoms described. It typically presents with signs of dehydration, low blood pressure, and tachycardia, which are not mentioned in the client's manifestations.
Choice C reason : Hyponatremia, or low sodium levels in the blood, can occur in ESKD due to dilution from retained fluids, but the primary symptoms described by the client are more indicative of fluid overload rather than electrolyte imbalance alone.
Choice D reason : Hyperkalemia, or high potassium levels, is a serious complication of ESKD due to the kidneys' inability to excrete potassium. While it is a concern in ESKD, the symptoms described by the client are more directly related to fluid overload.
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