Patient Data
The nurse is admitting the client to the stroke unit and preparing to complete a focused neurological assessment.
Which assessment(s) should the nurse conduct? Select all that apply.
Brudzinski reflexes
Muscle tone
Romberg's test
Level of consciousness
Pupil size
Cranial nerves
Glasgow coma scale
Correct Answer : B,C,D,E,F,G
A. Brudzinski reflexes test is primarily used to assess for meningeal irritation, which is not directly related to stroke.
B. Muscle tone assessments help to identify abnormalities in motor function, which could indicate neurological damage. Given the patient’s history and the recent fall, muscle tone should be checked for any signs of weakness or spasticity.
C. This test evaluates the client’s balance and proprioception. It is a quick way to check for potential issues with the nervous system, such as ataxia or other motor impairments, which could be present in a client with a stroke.
D. Assessing the level of consciousness is critical in a neurological assessment to ensure that the client is oriented and alert, which is especially important after a fall or stroke-like symptoms.
E. Pupillary response is an essential part of a neurological exam. Checking the size and reactivity of the pupils helps to assess brainstem function and overall neurological health.
F. Cranial nerve function should be assessed to evaluate for signs of neurological deficits. In stroke patients, cranial nerve impairments can provide important diagnostic information.
G. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a standard tool for assessing the level of consciousness and neurological status. It can provide valuable insights into the severity of a neurological condition, especially in post-fall or post-stroke patients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. This is a normal finding where the right pupil constricts when the light is directed at it, and the left pupil constricts consensually as well. This suggests normal function of the pupillary light reflex pathway, and no further evaluation is needed.
B. This also indicates normal pupillary function. Equal pupil size and appropriate constriction to light are typical findings, suggesting no immediate issues with the nervous system.
C. Pupil size should not change in response to distance unless there is a near response (accommodation). If the pupil size changes to distance of the light source instead of light reflex, this suggests potential abnormality in the pupillary reflex response.
D. This is an abnormal finding. A "notched" iris suggests possible damage or congenital anomalies, and minimal change in pupil size may indicate impaired pupil reflexes, requiring further evaluation to rule out neurological or ophthalmologic issues.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While anxiety and fear can accompany many medical conditions, they are not typically associated with appendicitis. Appendicitis is characterized by physical symptoms like pain and digestive disturbances rather than emotional symptoms.
B. Periumbilical pain that shifts to the right lower quadrant is the classic presentation of appendicitis. As the inflammation progresses, pain tends to move from the mid-abdomen to the lower right abdomen, which supports a diagnosis of appendicitis.
C. Diffuse abdominal pain is less specific and could indicate a variety of conditions. While an elevated neutrophil count can suggest infection or inflammation, the localized pain seen in appendicitis is a more distinguishing feature.
D. These symptoms are also common in appendicitis, as it typically presents with loss of appetite, nausea, and fever. However, the hallmark symptom is localized pain, particularly in the right lower quadrant, making B a stronger indication.
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