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
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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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Surgery to remove the eye is not the immediate course of action and is only considered in severe cases where infection cannot be managed.
B. Referral for a drug rehabilitation program is beneficial for the patient's long-term health but is not the priority in this case where there is an active eye infection.
C. Admission for IV and intravitreal antibiotics is necessary to treat a possible severe eye infection, which can be sight-threatening, especially in immunocompromised patients, such as those with a history of IV drug use.
D. An outpatient follow-up with an eye specialist may be part of ongoing care but does not address the acute need for immediate antibiotic therapy to prevent further complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Posterior cord injury usually affects proprioception rather than causing a distinctive pattern of motor and sensory loss.
B. Anterior cord injury generally impacts motor function and temperature and pain sensation bilaterally, not in a hemisection pattern.
C. Central cord injury primarily affects motor function in the upper extremities and is not characterized by ipsilateral motor and contralateral sensory loss.
D. Brown-Sequard syndrome typically presents with motor function loss on the same (ipsilateral) side of the injury and loss of pain and temperature sensation on the opposite (contralateral) side, making this the most likely diagnosis.
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