A nurse is teaching a student about cerebral edema. The student nurse asks, "What type of cerebral edema is associated with a client who has a stroke?" Which of the following is the best response from the nurse?

Choice A Reason:

Decreased blood pressure is correct. Decreased blood pressure (hypotension) is the priority finding to monitor for because it is indicative of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to shock, organ failure, and death if not promptly treated. Hypotension in the context of an allergic reaction suggests widespread vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure.

Choice B Reason:

Stomach pain is incorrect. Stomach pain may indicate gastrointestinal distress or adverse effects of the antibiotic, but it is not typically as immediately life-threatening as decreased blood pressure in the context of anaphylaxis. While abdominal pain should not be ignored, it is not the priority finding when assessing for signs of anaphylaxis.

Choice C Reason:

Urticaria is incorrect. Urticaria, also known as hives, is a common allergic reaction characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin. While urticaria can be uncomfortable and distressing, it is not immediately life-threatening. However, urticaria may be a precursor to more severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, so it is still important to monitor closely.

Choice D Reason:

Lightheadedness is incorrect. Lightheadedness may occur as a result of hypotension in the context of anaphylaxis, but it is not as critical as directly monitoring blood pressure. Lightheadedness may also be caused by other factors, such as anxiety or dehydration, and may not always indicate a severe allergic reaction. While it is important to assess for lightheadedness and monitor the client's overall condition, it is not the priority finding compared to decreased blood pressure.

Choice A Reason:

"The nerves just go to sleep when I lie down because no message gets from my brain to the spinal cord." is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the mechanism of peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy in diabetes is not simply the nerves "going to sleep" due to lack of communication between the brain and spinal cord.

Choice B Reason:

"The nerve damage may occur for unknown reasons in any individual" is incorrect because while the exact cause of peripheral neuropathy may not always be known, in the context of diabetes mellitus, the link between elevated blood sugar levels and nerve damage is well-established.

Choice C Reason:

"The older I get, there is less blood flowing to my feet. “is incorrect because while decreased blood flow (ischemia) can contribute to peripheral neuropathy in some cases, the primary mechanism in diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage due to hyperglycemia rather than reduced blood flow.

Choice D Reason:

"The elevated blood sugar from my diabetes can cause underlying nerve damage." Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus, particularly when the condition is uncontrolled. Elevated blood sugar levels over time can lead to damage to the nerves, especially those in the feet and legs. This damage can result in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or pain in the affected areas.