Autonomic dysreflexia is characterized by:
Hypertension, bradycardia, and headache.
Hypotension and shock.
Extreme pain below the level of injury.
Pallor and vasodilation above the level of injury.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Autonomic dysreflexia is a condition that occurs in individuals with spinal cord injuries, typically at or above the T6 level. It is characterized by a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure (hypertension), accompanied by a slowed heart rate (bradycardia) and severe headache. This condition results from an exaggerated autonomic response to stimuli below the level of the spinal cord injury, such as a distended bladder or bowel, leading to the release of catecholamines and subsequent vasoconstriction.
Choice B reason: Hypotension and shock are not characteristic of autonomic dysreflexia. Instead, autonomic dysreflexia involves hypertension. Hypotension and shock are more commonly associated with conditions such as spinal shock or severe blood loss, not the autonomic crisis seen in autonomic dysreflexia.
Choice C reason: Extreme pain below the level of injury can occur in individuals with spinal cord injuries, but it is not a hallmark of autonomic dysreflexia. The condition is primarily marked by the triad of hypertension, bradycardia, and headache. Pain below the level of injury may be related to other complications of spinal cord injury but does not define autonomic dysreflexia.
Choice D reason: Pallor and vasodilation above the level of injury are not typical features of autonomic dysreflexia. In fact, above the level of injury, individuals may experience vasoconstriction and flushing due to the altered autonomic responses. The key symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia are hypertension, bradycardia, and headache.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cirrhosis of the liver is the most common cause of portal hypertension. Cirrhosis involves the scarring of liver tissue, which obstructs blood flow through the liver and increases pressure in the portal vein. This increased pressure can lead to complications such as varices (enlarged veins) that can rupture and cause bleeding, such as vomiting blood (hematemesis). The liver's inability to properly manage blood flow due to scar tissue buildup is central to the development of portal hypertension.
Choice B reason: Left ventricular failure can lead to pulmonary hypertension (increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries) but is not a common cause of portal hypertension. Portal hypertension specifically refers to increased pressure in the portal vein system, which is most often due to liver disease. Left ventricular failure affects the heart and lungs, not the liver or its blood vessels, thus not leading to the observed condition of portal hypertension.
Choice C reason: Renal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys, which can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure) but not portal hypertension. Portal hypertension is related to the liver and its blood flow, not the renal arteries. Renal stenosis primarily causes problems in the kidney's function and systemic blood pressure rather than affecting the portal vein system.
Choice D reason: Thrombosis in the spleen can cause localized issues but is not a common cause of portal hypertension. Portal hypertension is typically related to liver conditions, such as cirrhosis, which affect the blood flow through the liver and portal vein system. Thrombosis in the spleen might complicate portal vein blood flow but is not a primary cause like liver cirrhosis is.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Warfarin does not primarily prevent platelet aggregation. It is an anticoagulant that inhibits the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, which are necessary for blood clot formation. Although it affects the clotting process, it does not have a direct impact on platelets.
Choice B reason: Heparin does not have a longer half-life compared to warfarin. In fact, heparin has a relatively short half-life, which allows for rapid adjustments in dosing. This characteristic makes it suitable for acute management of conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where immediate anticoagulation is necessary.
Choice C reason: Heparin does not necessarily have fewer adverse effects compared to warfarin. Both medications have potential side effects and risks. Heparin can cause bleeding, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), and other complications, while warfarin also carries a risk of bleeding and requires careful monitoring due to its interactions with foods and other medications.
Choice D reason: The onset of warfarin is slower than heparin. Heparin works rapidly to anticoagulate the blood and is often used for immediate management of conditions like DVT. Warfarin, on the other hand, takes several days to reach its full anticoagulant effect as it gradually reduces the levels of clotting factors. Therefore, patients are typically started on heparin for immediate effect and then transitioned to warfarin for long-term anticoagulation.
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