A patient is being admitted to the unit with suspected herpes simplex virus encephalitis. What nursing action best addresses the patient’s complaints of headache?
Administering hydromorphone as needed
Distracting the patient with activity
Dimming the lights and reducing stimulation
Initiating a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) of morphine sulfate .
The Correct Answer is C
Choice C rationale
Dimming the lights and reducing stimulation can be an effective nursing intervention for a patient with herpes simplex virus encephalitis who is complaining of a headache. Bright lights and excessive noise can exacerbate headaches, so creating a quiet, dimly lit environment can help to alleviate this symptom.
Choice A rationale
While administering hydromorphone as needed can help to manage the patient’s pain, it does not directly address the patient’s complaint of a headache. Moreover, opioids like hydromorphone can have side effects such as drowsiness and constipation, which may not be desirable in a patient with encephalitis.
Choice B rationale
Distracting the patient with activity may not be appropriate for a patient with herpes simplex virus encephalitis who is complaining of a headache. Rest and quiet are often more beneficial for these patients.
Choice D rationale
Initiating a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) of morphine sulfate can provide effective pain relief for some patients, but it may not be the best first-line approach for a patient with a headache due to herpes simplex virus encephalitis. Like hydromorphone, morphine can have side effects such as drowsiness and constipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","F"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
It is a common misconception that something should be placed in the mouth of someone having a seizure to prevent them from biting their tongue. However, this can cause more harm than good, including injury to the person’s mouth or the rescuer’s fingers.
Choice B rationale
Moving furniture away from the person having a seizure can help prevent injury. During a seizure, a person may move uncontrollably, and removing nearby objects can reduce the risk of harm.
Choice C rationale
Loosening constrictive clothing can help the person breathe more easily during and after a seizure.
Choice D rationale
Providing privacy can help maintain the person’s dignity and reduce embarrassment after a seizure.
Choice E rationale
It is not recommended to restrain a person during a seizure. This can result in injury. Instead, the goal is to keep the person safe until the seizure stops on its own.
Choice F rationale
Positioning the person on their side with their head flexed forward can help prevent aspiration, which can occur if the person vomits during or after a seizure.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While participation in multiple-step activities can provide mental stimulation, it may be challenging for a patient with Alzheimer’s disease. These activities often require a level of cognitive functioning that may be impaired in Alzheimer’s patients. As a result, these activities could lead to frustration and agitation rather than fostering socialization.
Choice B rationale
Hobbies involving fine motor skills can be beneficial for maintaining dexterity and coordination. However, as Alzheimer’s disease progresses, these skills often decline. Therefore, while these hobbies may be enjoyable, they may not necessarily foster socialization.
Choice C rationale
Limiting visitors to one or two at a time can help to prevent overstimulation, which can be distressing for a person with Alzheimer’s disease. Smaller, more intimate gatherings can also foster more meaningful social interactions. Therefore, this approach can be beneficial for promoting socialization.
Choice D rationale
While social interaction is important for people with Alzheimer’s disease, frequent lengthy visits from friends may be overwhelming and lead to fatigue. It’s important to balance socialization with rest and relaxation. Therefore, promoting frequent lengthy visits may not be the best approach to foster socialization.
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