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
Administering acetaminophen by mouth for pain control is important, but it is not the first intervention that should be implemented for a client who has had a traumatic fall. Pain management is crucial, but it is not the immediate priority in this situation.
Choice B rationale
Performing a thorough health history is a part of the nursing assessment, but it is not the first intervention in an acute situation such as a traumatic fall. Immediate physical needs and potential injuries need to be addressed first.
Choice C rationale

Preparing for a STAT non-contrast CT scan is the correct answer. After a traumatic fall, it is crucial to quickly assess for potential injuries, especially to the brain. A CT scan can help identify any immediate life-threatening conditions such as bleeding in the brain.
Choice D rationale
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter to monitor urine output is an intervention that may be necessary depending on the client’s condition, but it is not the first intervention to be implemented after a traumatic fall.

Choice A rationale
Pulmonary embolus is a serious condition that can occur due to prolonged immobility, but it is not directly related to the timing of enteral nutrition in a client with increased intracranial pressure.

Choice B rationale
Bacterial translocation refers to the migration of bacteria from the gut to other areas of the body. Early enteral nutrition (within 24 to 48 hours) in critically ill patients can help maintain the integrity of the gut mucosa and prevent bacterial translocation. Therefore, starting enteral nutrition within this timeframe can help prevent bacterial translocation.
Choice C rationale
Deep vein thrombosis, like pulmonary embolus, is a risk due to immobility but is not directly related to the timing of enteral nutrition.
Choice D rationale
Myocardial infarction is a cardiac event that could be related to overall cardiovascular health, stress, or specific injury to the cardiac muscle. It is not directly prevented by the initiation of enteral nutrition.