The client has increased intracranial pressure with cerebral edema, and mannitol is administered. Which assessment should the nurse make to evaluate if a complication from the mannitol is occurring?
Auscultate breath sounds to assess for crackles
Press over the tibia to assess for pitting edema
Monitor Glasgow Coma Scale increasing from 8/15 to 9/15
Monitor for >50 mL/hr urine output
The Correct Answer is A
A. Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic that pulls fluid from brain tissue into the vascular space, which can lead to fluid overload and pulmonary edema. Crackles on auscultation may indicate this complication and should be assessed.
B. While peripheral edema may occur with fluid overload, crackles are a more immediate and concerning sign of pulmonary congestion related to mannitol.
C. An increase in Glasgow Coma Scale score indicates improvement in neurologic function, not a complication.
D. Increased urine output is an expected effect of mannitol; it helps reduce ICP by promoting diuresis.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Early-onset dementia is a neurodegenerative condition that leads to cognitive decline but does not cause cerebral edema.
B. A benign brain tumor can increase intracranial pressure and cause localized or generalized cerebral edema due to mass effect.
C. Traumatic brain injury frequently leads to cerebral edema as a result of tissue damage and inflammation.
D. Bacterial meningitis can lead to inflammation of the brain and meninges, often resulting in cerebral edema.
E. Hemorrhagic stroke causes bleeding into the brain tissue, triggering inflammation and swelling (edema) around the affected area.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
A quiet and calm environment helps reduce stimuli that can increase ICP and cause discomfort.
B. Minimizing procedures that cause agitation prevents spikes in ICP and patient distress.
C. Too many or prolonged family visits can overstimulate the patient, increasing ICP and discomfort.
D. Excessive interaction may overstimulate the patient; interaction should be limited based on tolerance.
E. Early identification and intervention for agitation help maintain stable ICP and patient comfort.
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