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?

Elevate the head of the bed, loosen clothing, and check the urinary catheter for obstruction

Elevate the head of the bed and apply a cool compress to the forehead

Place in Semi-Fowler's position and establish IV access

Establish IV access, apply 2 liters of nasal oxygen, and contact the health care provider

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

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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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. A patient found facedown in water is at high risk of anoxic brain injury due to potential prolonged oxygen deprivation, which is directly associated with lack of oxygen to the brain.

B. Multiple concussions can lead to other types of brain injury but are less associated with anoxic injury than prolonged oxygen deprivation.

C. A basilar skull fracture can cause complications such as CSF leaks but does not directly cause an anoxic brain injury.

D. An epidural hematoma may increase ICP, but with timely intervention, anoxic injury may be avoided; anoxic brain injury is more directly related to oxygen deprivation.

A. Drug dependence B. Cardiac rhythm C. Pulse oximetry D. Pain level

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. While drug dependence can be a concern with long-term use, it is not the immediate priority in an emergency setting where the goal is to stabilize the patient in status epilepticus.

B. Cardiac rhythm monitoring is important when administering certain medications, but lorazepam primarily affects the central nervous system and respiratory system, making oxygen saturation monitoring more critical.

C. Pulse oximetry is the priority assessment as IV lorazepam can depress the respiratory system, leading to hypoxia. Monitoring oxygen saturation helps ensure the patient maintains adequate respiratory function during administration.

D. Assessing pain is important in patient care, but it is not the priority in managing a patient in status epilepticus, where stabilization is essential.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for several patients in the Intensive Care Unit. Which of the following patients is at greatest risk of anoxic brain injury? A patient who:

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The healthcare provider has prescribed intravenous (IV) lorazepam for the patient in status epilepticus. During administration, which is the priority assessment by the nurse?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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