A patient is admitted to the hospital with symptoms consistent with a right hemisphere stroke. Which neurovascular assessment requires immediate intervention by the nurse?
Pupillary changes to ipsilateral dilation.
Left-sided facial drooping and dysphagia.
Orientation to person and place only.
Unequal bilateral hand grip strengths.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Pupillary changes to ipsilateral dilation indicate increased intracranial pressure, which is a life-threatening complication of stroke. The nurse should notify the physician and prepare for emergency measures.
Choice B reason: Left-sided facial drooping and dysphagia are common signs of right hemisphere stroke, but they do not require immediate intervention by the nurse. The nurse should monitor the patient's swallowing ability and provide oral care.
Choice C reason: Orientation to person and place only is a sign of impaired cognition, which is also common in right hemisphere stroke. The nurse should assess the patient's memory, judgment, and attention span.
Choice D reason: Unequal bilateral hand grip strengths are a sign of hemiparesis, which is a weakness on one side of the body. The nurse should assist the patient with mobility and prevent contractures.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
- The client is most likely experiencing compartment syndrome, which is a condition where increased pressure within a closed space compromises blood flow and tissue perfusion. Compartment syndrome can occur after a fracture, especially if a cast or splint is applied too tightly. Some of the signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome are severe pain, paresthesia, pallor, and pulselessness.
- Two actions the nurse should take to address compartment syndrome are:
- Elevate the extremity above the level of the heart to reduce swelling and improve venous return.
- Remove the cast or loosen the dressing to relieve the pressure and restore blood flow. This may require notifying the physician or obtaining an order for bivalving or cutting the cast.
- Two parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client’s condition are:
- Capillary refill of the affected fingers, which should be less than 3 seconds. A prolonged capillary refill indicates poor perfusion and tissue ischemia.
- Blood pressure of the client, which should be maintained within normal limits. Hypotension can worsen the perfusion deficit and lead to tissue necrosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because sleeping with the head ofthe bed flat can worsen OSA by allowing gravity to pull down on the soft tissues ofthe throat and obstructing airflow.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because taking sedatives prior to sleep can also worsen OSA by relaxing the muscles ofthe upper airway and increasing airway collapse.
Choice C reason: This is correct because beginning a weight loss program can help reduce OSA by decreasing fat deposits around the neck and chest that can compress and narrow the airway.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because drinking 1to 2 glasses of wine at bedtime can have similar effects as sedatives, such as relaxing the muscles ofthe upper airway and impairing the respiratory drive.
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