A patient presents with dilated pupils and vomiting. Which stage of intracranial pressure is this most likely indicative of?
Compensatory stage
Refractory stage
Initial stage
Progressive stage
The Correct Answer is D
A. The compensatory stage involves subtle changes as the brain attempts to maintain normal ICP, typically without severe symptoms like dilated pupils.
B. The refractory stage is the final stage where brain injury is irreversible and signs are severe, often including coma.
C. The initial stage usually shows minimal or no symptoms.
D. The progressive stage of increased ICP is characterized by worsening neurological signs, including vomiting, dilated pupils due to cranial nerve compression, and decreased level of consciousness. These symptoms indicate that intracranial pressure is rising and beginning to impair brain function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hypoglycemia is not a common side effect of furosemide.
B. Furosemide is a diuretic that promotes fluid loss, so hypervolemia (excess fluid) is unlikely.
C. Furosemide usually lowers blood pressure; hypertension is not typical.
D. Furosemide can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to increased potassium excretion, which requires monitoring.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Decorticate posturing is characterized by arms flexed at the elbows with wrists and fingers bent inward toward the chest, indicating damage to the cerebral hemispheres or corticospinal tract.
B. Grimacing and leg movement with neck flexion describe a positive Brudzinski’s sign, related to meningeal irritation, not posturing.
C. Inability to extend the leg with hip flexion causing pain describes a positive Kernig’s sign, also related to meningeal irritation.
D. Arms extended and rigid with palms turned outward describe decerebrate posturing, indicating more severe brainstem injury.
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