The nurse is caring for a client admitted to the hospital with a tentative diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Which diagnostic procedure should the nurse prepare the client for the healthcare provider?
Lumbar puncture.
Skull radiography.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Computerized tomography (CT) scan.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A lumbar puncture is a key diagnostic procedure for suspected bacterial meningitis. It allows for the collection of cerebrospinal fluid, which can be analyzed for signs of bacterial infection.
Choice B rationale
Skull radiography is not typically used to diagnose bacterial meningitis. While it can help identify abnormalities in the structure of the skull or brain, it cannot detect the presence of bacteria.
Choice C rationale
While an MRI can provide detailed images of the brain and surrounding tissues, it is not the primary tool for diagnosing bacterial meningitis. It may be used in conjunction with other tests, but a lumbar puncture is more definitive.
Choice D rationale
A CT scan can be used to detect abnormalities in the brain, such as swelling or inflammation, which could be indicative of meningitis. However, it cannot definitively diagnose bacterial meningitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying oxygen at 10 L via non-rebreather mask and monitoring pulse oximeter is the most important intervention for a patient in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) with a heart rate of 140 beats/minute, blood pressure 140/90 mm Hg, and respirations 26 breaths/minute.
These vital signs suggest that the patient may be experiencing hypoxia or respiratory distress, conditions that require immediate intervention.
Choice B rationale
Medicating for pain and monitoring vital signs according to protocol is important in the PACU, but it is not the most critical intervention in this scenario. The patient’s vital signs suggest a possible respiratory issue, which should be addressed immediately.
Choice C rationale
Encouraging the client to splint the incision with a pillow to cough and deep breathe is a common postoperative intervention to promote lung expansion and prevent atelectasis and pneumonia. However, in this scenario, the patient’s vital signs suggest a more immediate respiratory issue that requires prompt intervention.
Choice D rationale
Administering an intravenous fluid bolus as prescribed by the healthcare provider can be an appropriate intervention for certain conditions in the PACU, such as hypotension. However, in this scenario, the patient’s vital signs suggest a possible respiratory issue, which should be addressed immediately.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Cold and dry skin can be a symptom of hypothyroidism, but it’s not typically a sign that requires immediate action.
Choice B rationale
Facial puffiness and periorbital edema can be symptoms of hypothyroidism, but they’re not typically signs that require immediate action.
Choice C rationale
A hematocrit of 30% (0.30 volume fraction) is lower than the normal range, indicating anemia. While this is a concern and should be addressed, it’s not typically a sign that requires immediate action in the context of hypothyroidism.
Choice D rationale
A further decline in the level of consciousness can be a serious sign of deteriorating health in a client with hypothyroidism and should be acted upon immediately.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today