The nurse is caring for a patient with a spinal cord injury (SCI) who is about to be transferred to a wheelchair for Physical Therapy. The patient complains of feeling dizzy and is diaphoretic. What would be the priority nursing action?

Establish IV access and bolus 250 mL normal saline

Assess for bladder distension and perform digital disimpaction

Reschedule the therapy session for later in the day

Lower the head of the bed and obtain vital signs

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Establishing IV access may be necessary if hypotension persists but is not the initial priority.

B. Bladder distension assessment is essential for managing autonomic dysreflexia in SCI patients; however, symptoms here suggest orthostatic hypotension rather than autonomic dysreflexia.

C. Rescheduling therapy may be considered if dizziness persists, but it does not address the immediate concern.

D. Lowering the head of the bed and obtaining vital signs can help stabilize blood pressure and monitor for orthostatic hypotension, which is common in patients with SCI due to autonomic dysfunction. This intervention helps to prevent syncope.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Reorienting confused patients is important but is not directly related to cerebellar injury.

B. While turning every 2 hours is important to prevent pressure injuries, it does not address the specific fall risk associated with cerebellar damage.

C. The cerebellum is responsible for balance and coordination, so injuries in this area increase the risk of falls. Ensuring the bed alarm is on provides immediate alerts if the patient attempts to get out of bed, helping to prevent falls.

D. Varying the schedule to prevent boredom is not a priority in the care of patients with cerebellar injury.

A. Elevate the head of the bed, loosen clothing, and check the urinary catheter for obstruction B. Elevate the head of the bed and apply a cool compress to the forehead C. Place in Semi-Fowler's position and establish IV access D. Establish IV access, apply 2 liters of nasal oxygen, and contact the health care provider

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Elevating the head of the bed, loosening clothing, and checking for urinary catheter obstruction are key steps to lower blood pressure and relieve triggers of autonomic dysreflexia, a potentially life-threatening condition.

B. A cool compress may provide comfort but does not directly address the primary triggers or symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia.

C. Semi-Fowler's position is insufficient compared to a full 90-degree sitting position, which helps reduce blood pressure.

D. IV access and oxygen may be required if symptoms do not resolve, but immediate actions focus on relieving the cause of dysreflexia.

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The nurse is caring for a patient with a spinal cord injury (SCI) who is about to be transferred to a wheelchair for Physical Therapy. The patient complains of feeling dizzy and is diaphoretic. What would be the priority nursing action?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with a brain injury to the cerebellum. Which nursing intervention is priority?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse suspects autonomic dysreflexia in the patient with a spinal cord injury at the level of C-7. After checking vital signs what are the priority nursing interventions?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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