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)?
T98.7 F (36.4 C), BP 220/46, HR 30, RR 6, O2 Sat 98% Room Air.
T92.5 F (33.6 C), BP 90/64, HR 80, RR 14, O2 Sat 97% Room Air.
T103.1 F (39.5 C), BP 82/50, HR 132, RR 30, O2 Sat 99% Room Air.
T98.6 F (37 C), BP 200/94, HR 90, RR 18, O2 Sat 100% Room Air.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Extremely high systolic BP (220 mmHg), bradycardia (HR 30), and altered respirations (RR 6) suggest Cushing's triad, a hallmark of increased ICP due to severe brain injury.
Choice B rationale
Hypothermia (T92.5°F) and hypotension (BP 90/64) do not indicate increased ICP but may result from shock or hypothermic conditions affecting autonomic responses.
Choice C rationale
Hyperthermia (T103.1°F) and tachycardia (HR 132) are commonly seen in infection or hypermetabolic states, not directly pointing to raised ICP.
Choice D rationale
Mild hypertension (BP 200/94) with normal HR (90) and RR (18) does not fit the classic signs of increased ICP like Cushing's triad.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Proper nutrition, exercise, and stress reduction enhance psychological well-being, stimulating endorphin release, which improves mood and resilience, essential for managing chronic conditions like HIV.
Choice B rationale
These factors bolster immune function by reducing cortisol levels that impair immunity, supporting T-cell activity and promoting resistance against opportunistic infections common in HIV patients.
Choice C rationale
Maintaining strength and independence aids patients in daily functioning, reducing dependency and enhancing self-efficacy, which is critical for long-term adherence to therapeutic regimens in HIV.
Choice D rationale
Preventing virus transmission requires safe practices, not lifestyle changes alone. Nutrition and exercise cannot alter transmission mechanisms like exposure to body fluids.
Choice E rationale
Eliminating HIV completely necessitates antiretroviral therapy and advancements in medical science; lifestyle modifications alone are insufficient against viral integration within host DNA.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Bipolar disorder is an approved indication for valproic acid use. It helps stabilize mood swings, particularly mania, making it a suitable treatment rather than a contraindication.
Choice B rationale
Pre-existing liver disease contraindicates valproic acid because it increases the risk of hepatic toxicity and liver failure. Liver function must be closely monitored in all patients receiving this drug.
Choice C rationale
Asthma is not affected by valproic acid use as the drug targets neurological pathways and does not impact respiratory or bronchial systems significantly.
Choice D rationale
Valproic acid is used to treat migraines and seizures. It prevents the occurrence of severe headaches through stabilization of neuronal activity, making this an appropriate rather than contraindicated use. .
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