The nurse is caring for a patient with bacterial meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B. What should the nurse include in the patient's plan of care?
Monitoring of neurologic status
Infusion of large volumes of isotonic intravenous fluids
Standard precautions
Distraction activities to reduce long periods of sleep.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This is correct. Monitoring of neurologic status is a priority intervention for a patient with bacterial meningitis, as the infection can cause inflammation and damage to the brain and spinal cord. The nurse should assess the patient's level of consciousness, pupillary response, cranial nerve function, and signs of increased intracranial pressure.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Infusion of large volumes of isotonic intravenous fluids is not indicated for a patient with bacterial meningitis, as it can worsen the cerebral edema and increase the intracranial pressure. The patient should receive adequate hydration, but not excessive fluids.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Standard precautions are not sufficient for a patient with bacterial meningitis, as the infection can be transmitted through respiratory droplets. The patient should be placed on droplet precautions, which include wearing a mask, gloves, and gown, and limiting the contact with other patients and visitors.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Distraction activities to reduce long periods of sleep are not appropriate for a patient with bacterial meningitis, as the patient may need rest and sedation to reduce the agitation and pain. The nurse should provide a quiet and dark environment, and avoid unnecessary stimuli that can increase the intracranial pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:Swaying during a Romberg test indicates a positive result, suggesting proprioceptive deficits or sensory ataxia.
Choice B reason:Unequal pupil response to light relates to cranial nerve function, not balance assessed by the Romberg test.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Patient taking two attempts to touch their nose while their eyes are closed is a mild impairment of coordination, which may be due to neurologic changes or other factors such as fatigue or medication. This is not a significant finding that requires immediate attention.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Patient complaining of mild dizziness is a common symptom of neurologic changes or vestibular dysfunction. It is not a serious finding that requires immediate attention. The nurse should monitor the patient and provide comfort measures.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that affects the motor neurons, which control the voluntary muscles. It does not affect the cognitive or mental functions, such as memory, reasoning, or emotions. Therefore, the person with ALS will be aware of their condition and their surroundings, even when they lose their ability to move, speak, or breathe.
Choice B reason: ALS affects the muscles of the mouth, throat, and chest, which are involved in swallowing. As the disease progresses, the person with ALS will have difficulty swallowing food, liquids, and saliva. This can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, choking, and aspiration pneumonia.
Choice C reason: ALS does not directly cause seizures, which are abnormal electrical activity in the brain. However, some medications used to treat the symptoms of ALS, such as muscle relaxants, may increase the risk of seizures. Therefore, the person with ALS should be monitored for any signs of seizures, such as loss of consciousness, convulsions, or confusion.
Choice D reason: ALS affects the muscles of the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles, which are involved in breathing. As the disease progresses, the person with ALS will have difficulty breathing, especially at night or when lying down. This can lead to respiratory failure, which is the most common cause of death in ALS. Therefore, the person with ALS may need mechanical ventilation or noninvasive positive pressure ventilation to support their breathing.
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