A patient comes into the emergency department with symptoms of a stroke that began 2 hours ago. Diagnostic testing confirms an ischemic stroke is present. What medications should the nurse anticipate will be delivered?
Heparin
Tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA)
Warfarin
Clopidogrel
The Correct Answer is B
A. Heparin: Heparin is an anticoagulant, but it is not typically used in the acute management of ischemic stroke because it does not dissolve clots already formed. It may be used later for prophylaxis against new clots.
B. Tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA): This is correct. tPA is a thrombolytic agent that can dissolve the clot causing the stroke. It is most effective when given within a few hours of symptom onset, making it the appropriate medication in this scenario.
C. Warfarin: Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant used for long-term prevention of clot formation but is not suitable for immediate thrombolytic therapy in acute ischemic stroke.
D. Clopidogrel: Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medication used for secondary prevention of strokes but is not used for acute thrombolysis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG) exam: While an ECG is important to assess cardiac status, it is not the immediate priority compared to addressing the low oxygen saturation.
B. Obtain intravenous access: IV access is important for administering medications and fluids but does not take precedence over addressing hypoxia.
C. Administer 2 L of oxygen per nasal cannula: This is correct. The priority is to improve oxygenation since hypoxia can exacerbate neurological damage in a stroke patient. An SpO2 of 88% is low and requires immediate correction to prevent further complications.
D. Obtain a rectal temperature: Temperature assessment is not as urgent as addressing the immediate need for oxygen to improve SpO2 levels.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "This medication will help lower my cholesterol.": Statins are primarily used to lower cholesterol levels, which helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases including strokes.
B. "This medication can help protect my brain from a stroke.": While statins indirectly help reduce the risk of a stroke by lowering cholesterol, they do not directly protect the brain from stroke.
C. "This medication will help stop plaques in my blood vessels.": Statins can reduce the progression of atherosclerosis by lowering cholesterol, but they do not stop plaque formation completely.
D. "Muscle pains are normal for the first few weeks.": Muscle pain (myopathy) can be a side effect of statins and should be reported to a healthcare provider, as it can indicate a serious condition like rhabdomyolysis, not something that should be considered normal.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.