The nurse is caring for a patient with an acute brain injury. Which of the following sets of vital signs would concern the nurse about increasing intracranial pressure (ICP)?
T 92.5 F (33.6 C), BP 90/64, HR 80, RR 14, 02 Sat 97% Room Air
T 98.7 F (36.4 C), BP 220/46, HR 30, RR 6, O2 Sat 98% Room Air
T 98.6 F (37 C), BP 200/94, HR 90, RR 18, 02 Sat 100% Room Air
T 103.1 F (39.5 C), BP 82/50, HR 132, RR 30, O2 Sat 99% Room Air
The Correct Answer is B
A. The low blood pressure (90/64) may indicate hypovolemia or shock but is not specific for ICP concerns.
B. This set of vital signs is concerning due to the extremely high blood pressure (220/46) combined with a very low heart rate (30) and low respiratory rate (6), which can indicate an autonomic response to increased ICP, potentially leading to Cushing's triad (hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations).
C. Although the blood pressure is high (200/94), the heart rate is normal and the respiratory rate is stable, making this less alarming compared to option B.
D. The elevated temperature and abnormal heart rate (132) indicate potential fever and tachycardia, but the blood pressure (82/50) is low and does not directly indicate increased ICP.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The fifth intercostal space at the left midclavicular line is the location of the mitral valve, where murmurs associated with mitral valve disease are best auscultated.
B. The fourth intercostal space at the right sternal border is the location for assessing the tricuspid valve, not the mitral valve.
C. The third intercostal space at the left midclavicular line is not associated with loudest auscultation of the mitral valve murmur.
D. The second intercostal space at the right sternal border is where the aortic valve sounds are best heard.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Standard precautions should be used for all patients, including those with AIDS, as they are designed to prevent the transmission of infections regardless of the patient's diagnosis. This includes the use of gloves, hand hygiene, and proper disposal of sharps.
B. Droplet precautions are specific to diseases that are spread through respiratory droplets, which is not the primary concern in AIDS management.
C. Contact precautions are used for infections that can be transmitted through direct contact with the patient or contaminated surfaces, but are not routinely required for AIDS patients unless they have co-infections.
D. Behavioral precautions are not a recognized category for infection control in clinical settings.
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