The practical nurse (PN) is monitoring a client's neurologic status following a closed head injury. Which assessments should the PN include? Select all that apply.
Vital sign measurement.
Carotid pulse rate.
Consciousness level.
Jugular vein distention.
Pupillary reactions.
Correct Answer : A,C,E
A. Vital sign measurement: Monitoring temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure provides critical information about intracranial pressure changes and neurologic stability. Alterations such as irregular respirations or widening pulse pressure can signal deterioration.
B. Carotid pulse rate: Palpating the carotid pulse is not necessary for neurologic assessment and can be unsafe if excessive pressure is applied, as it may decrease cerebral perfusion. Pulse rate and rhythm can be assessed through other safer means.
C. Consciousness level: Assessing level of consciousness using tools like the Glasgow Coma Scale is one of the most sensitive indicators of neurologic change. Any alteration in alertness, orientation, or response indicates possible increased intracranial pressure or worsening brain injury.
D. Jugular vein distention: This assessment is more relevant for evaluating cardiac function or fluid overload rather than neurologic status. It provides little information about brain injury or intracranial dynamics.
E. Pupillary reactions: Pupillary size, equality, and response to light reflect brainstem function and cranial nerve integrity. Changes such as unequal or sluggish pupils may signal pressure on cranial nerves or worsening neurologic condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Advise the UAP to wash hands before providing further care: While reminding the UAP to wash hands before assisting another client is important, the immediate concern is that the UAP may have left the client’s room without performing proper hand hygiene, which risks cross-contamination.
B. Determine if the UAP was wearing gloves when providing care: The use of gloves does not replace the need for proper hand hygiene. Even if gloves were worn, hands must still be washed after glove removal to prevent the spread of pathogens.
C. Instruct the UAP to return to the client's room to wash hands: Directing the UAP to perform hand hygiene immediately after client contact ensures compliance with standard precautions and protects other clients from contamination.
D. Remind the UAP to use an alcohol-based hand rub regularly: Regular use of alcohol-based sanitizer is encouraged, but in this case, the PN should ensure immediate corrective action rather than provide a general reminder. The focus must be on stopping the current breach of infection control.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I don't have any use for those who say this disease is going to win": This statement reflects anger or resistance, which is common in earlier stages of grief and adjustment, rather than acceptance of prognosis.
B. "I've found the support I need from my faith and family": Seeking and acknowledging support demonstrates that the client has processed emotions, adapted to the diagnosis, and reached a level of acceptance, allowing for coping and meaningful engagement with life.
C. "I think I've had this disease for a long time, but the doctor did not find it": This statement reflects confusion or disbelief, indicating the client is still processing the diagnosis rather than accepting it.
D. "I understand that this is a disease that occurs mostly in older men": While factual understanding shows knowledge about the disease, it does not necessarily reflect personal acceptance of prognosis or emotional adjustment.
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