A nurse is monitoring a client who has a traumatic brain injury and a ventriculostomy drain. The nurse should report which of the following findings as a complication of this therapeutic procedure? (Select all that apply.)
Infection
Vomiting
Widening pulse pressure
Equal and reactive pupils
Intracranial pressure reading of 10 mm Hg
Correct Answer : A,B,C
Choice A Reason:
Infection is a significant complication of a ventriculostomy drain. The presence of a foreign object in the brain increases the risk of infections such as meningitis or ventriculitis. Signs of infection can include fever, redness, swelling at the insertion site, and changes in mental status.
Choice B Reason:
Vomiting can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP), which is a serious complication in clients with a traumatic brain injury and a ventriculostomy drain. Increased ICP can lead to further brain injury and requires immediate medical attention.
Choice C Reason:
Widening pulse pressure (the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure) can indicate increased intracranial pressure. This is a critical finding that should be reported immediately as it can signify worsening brain injury or other complications.
Choice D Reason:
Equal and reactive pupils are generally a normal finding and do not indicate a complication. This suggests that the brainstem is functioning properly and there is no significant increase in intracranial pressure affecting the cranial nerves.
Choice E Reason:
An intracranial pressure reading of 10 mm Hg is within the normal range (typically 7-15 mm Hg for adults). Therefore, this finding does not indicate a complication and does not require immediate reporting.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason
“It is okay to not want to touch the burned areas of your body.” This statement is empathetic and acknowledges the client’s feelings, but it does not provide a constructive way to address their concerns about altered appearance. While it is important to validate the client’s feelings, offering a solution or support mechanism is more beneficial.
Choice B Reason
“Cosmetic surgery should be performed within the next year to be effective.” This statement is misleading. While timely intervention can be important, the timing of reconstructive or cosmetic surgery depends on various factors, including the extent of the burns, the healing process, and the patient’s overall health. It is not accurate to generalize that surgery must be performed within a year.
Choice C Reason
“Reconstructive surgery can completely restore your previous appearance.” This statement is incorrect and can give false hope. Reconstructive surgery aims to improve function and appearance, but it cannot completely restore the previous appearance. Managing expectations is crucial in the recovery process.
Choice D Reason
“It could be helpful for you to attend a support group for people who have burn injuries.” This statement is correct. Support groups provide emotional and psychological support, helping burn survivors cope with changes in appearance and other challenges. They offer a sense of community and shared experiences, which can be very beneficial for recovery.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason
Determine the time the last dose of pain medication was administered. While it is important to know when the last dose of pain medication was given, assessing the client’s current pain level is a priority. This helps in understanding the severity and nature of the pain, which guides further interventions.
Choice B Reason
Reposition the client to assist with reduction of pain. Repositioning can help alleviate pain, but it should be done after assessing the pain. Without understanding the pain’s characteristics, repositioning might not address the underlying issue effectively.
Choice C Reason
Ask the client to describe the pain and rate it on a scale of 0 to 10. This is the correct first action. Pain assessment is crucial in determining the appropriate intervention. By asking the client to describe and rate their pain, the nurse can tailor the pain management plan to the client’s specific needs.
Choice D Reason
Check the client’s medical record for type of PRN pain medication. Reviewing the medical record for PRN pain medication is important, but it should follow the initial pain assessment. Knowing the pain’s intensity and characteristics will help in deciding whether PRN medication is needed.
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