A nurse is providing care for a patient in the emergency department who has been preliminarily diagnosed with a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Which diagnostic test should the nurse expect the healthcare provider to order?

Choice A rationale
Rebleeding of the injury is a significant factor related to a high mortality rate for a client who has a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). SAH is a devastating event with substantial mortality and high morbidity among survivors. The most common primary causes of death or neurological devastation leading to withdrawal of support are direct effects of the primary hemorrhage (55%) and aneurysm rebleeding (17%)2. Therefore, rebleeding of the injury is a critical concern in the management of SAH.
Choice B rationale
Decreased cerebrospinal fluid is not directly linked to a high mortality rate in SAH. While changes in cerebrospinal fluid dynamics can occur after SAH, it’s not typically a primary factor contributing to mortality.
Choice C rationale
The use of nimodipine is actually part of the treatment protocol for SAH. Nimodipine is a calcium channel blocker that is used to prevent cerebral vasospasm, a complication of SAH. It does not contribute to a higher mortality rate.
Choice D rationale
Poor functional ability could be a result of SAH due to neurological damage, but it is not a direct cause of high mortality. The severity of the initial hemorrhage and subsequent

complications like rebleeding or medical complications are more directly tied to mortality rates.

Choice A rationale

Anhidrosis, or the inability to sweat normally, is a potential side effect of anticholinergic agents. These medications block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates sweat glands among other functions. If a patient taking an anticholinergic agent for Parkinson’s disease experiences anhidrosis, they should report it to their healthcare provider as it can lead to overheating and heat stroke.
Choice B rationale
Tremors are a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease, and anticholinergic medications are often used to help control them. Therefore, while tremors should be monitored, they are not typically a side effect that needs to be reported unless they worsen or become unmanageable.
Choice C rationale
Drooling can be a symptom of Parkinson’s disease, but it is not typically a side effect of anticholinergic medications. In fact, these medications can sometimes cause dry mouth.
Choice D rationale
Rigidity, like tremors, is a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. Anticholinergic medications can help manage rigidity, so it is not typically a side effect that needs to be reported unless it worsens.