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
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This statement is not accurate. Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is characterized by periods of new symptoms or relapses that develop over days or weeks and usually improve partially or completely. These episodes are followed by periods of remission, where the disease does not progress. Therefore, RRMS does not cause a steady and gradual decline in function.
Choice B rationale
This is the correct answer. Stress and extreme fatigue can trigger a relapse in RRMS1. Therefore, it is important for patients to avoid these triggers to manage their symptoms effectively.
Choice C rationale
This statement is incorrect. RRMS is the most common disease course at the time of diagnosis. It is not the least common type of multiple sclerosis.
Choice D rationale
This statement is not accurate. Medications for RRMS, known as disease-modifying treatments (DMT), are designed to reduce the frequency and severity of relapses. They are not intended to be taken only during times of relapse, but rather on an ongoing basis to manage the disease.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale
Patients with Ménière’s disease are often advised to limit or avoid foods high in sodium, such as canned soup. High sodium intake can increase fluid retention, which can exacerbate the symptoms of Ménière’s disease, such as vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
Choice A rationale
There is no specific recommendation for patients with Ménière’s disease to limit or avoid red meat. However, a balanced diet that includes lean proteins is generally recommended for overall health.
Choice B rationale
Frozen yogurt is not specifically contraindicated for patients with Ménière’s disease. However, patients should be mindful of the sugar content, as high sugar intake can potentially trigger symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Shellfish is not specifically contraindicated for patients with Ménière’s disease. However, patients should be mindful of the preparation method and any added sodium, which can exacerbate symptoms.
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