The nurse is providing care for a comatose patient and regularly assessing for potential complications. What complications should the nurse be looking for?
Venous thromboembolism
Hemorrhage
Contractures
Pressure ulcers
Pneumonia
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
Choice A rationale
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious complication that can occur in comatose patients. Immobility is a major risk factor for VTE, and comatose patients are often immobile. Therefore, nurses should be vigilant for signs of VTE, such as swelling, pain, or redness in the extremities.
Choice B rationale
Hemorrhage is not typically a direct complication of coma. However, the underlying cause of the coma, such as a traumatic brain injury, could potentially lead to hemorrhage.
Choice C rationale
Contractures, or the shortening and hardening of muscles, tendons, or other tissue, can occur in comatose patients due to prolonged immobility. Regular movement and physiotherapy can help prevent this complication.
Choice D rationale
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are a common complication in comatose patients. They occur when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, usually over bony areas. Regular turning and good skin care can help prevent pressure ulcers.
Choice E rationale
Pneumonia is a common complication in comatose patients, often resulting from aspiration (inhaling food, stomach acid, or saliva into the lungs)2. Nurses should be vigilant for signs of pneumonia, such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Status epilepticus is a medical emergency characterized by continuous or rapid-fire seizures. Intravenous diazepam is one of the first-line treatments for this condition. It works by enhancing the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, thereby helping to stop the seizure.
Choice B rationale
Oral lorazepam is not typically used to halt a seizure immediately due to its slower onset of action compared to intravenous administration.
Choice C rationale
Oral phenytoin is not typically used to halt a seizure immediately. It is more commonly used for the long-term management of seizures.
Choice D rationale
Intravenous phenobarbital is a second-line treatment for status epilepticus, used when first- line treatments such as diazepam are ineffective.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While tremors and decreased mobility are common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, they are not the most significant impact on a patient’s life. These physical symptoms can be managed with medication and physical therapy.
Choice B rationale
Loss of independence is often the most significant impact on a patient’s life. As the disease progresses, patients may find it increasingly difficult to perform daily activities and may require assistance.
Choice C rationale
Age-related changes can contribute to the progression of Parkinson’s disease, but they are not the most significant impact on a patient’s life. The disease itself, rather than aging, is the primary cause of the symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Neurologic deficits are a result of Parkinson’s disease, but they are not the most significant impact on a patient’s life. The loss of independence that results from these deficits is often more impactful.
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