What does a positive halo sign indicate?
Increased intracranial pressure
Impingement of cranial nerves
Fracture of the anterior fossa
Cerebrospinal fluid leak
The Correct Answer is D
A. Increased intracranial pressure: Increased ICP can cause headache, vomiting, and altered mental status, but it does not produce a halo sign. The halo sign specifically relates to fluid leakage rather than pressure changes.
B. Impingement of cranial nerves: Cranial nerve impingement may cause neurological deficits such as vision or facial changes, but it does not produce a halo sign. This sign is not a direct indicator of nerve compression.
C. Fracture of the anterior fossa: While fractures of the anterior cranial fossa can result in CSF leaks, the presence of a halo sign specifically indicates that fluid (CSF) is leaking from the nose or ear, rather than the fracture itself.
D. Cerebrospinal fluid leak: A positive halo sign occurs when a drop of fluid from the nose or ear separates on a gauze pad, forming a yellowish ring around a central blood spot. This is a classic indicator of CSF leakage, which is a complication of basal skull fractures or traumatic head injury.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Relieve increased intrapleural pressure: The primary life-threatening issue in tension pneumothorax is the buildup of pressure in the pleural space, which compresses the lungs and great vessels. Immediate decompression (e.g., needle thoracostomy) restores ventilation and venous return, preventing cardiovascular collapse.
B. Relieve increased intracranial pressure: Intracranial pressure is unrelated to tension pneumothorax. Interventions targeting ICP do not address the acute respiratory and circulatory compromise in this situation.
C. Cover wound with occlusive dressing: This may be appropriate for an open (sucking) chest wound, but in tension pneumothorax, the critical problem is trapped air, not just an open wound. Occlusive dressing alone does not relieve the intrapleural pressure.
D. Decrease cardiac output: Cardiac output is already compromised by the increased intrathoracic pressure. Reducing it further would worsen shock. The priority is to restore perfusion, not decrease cardiac output.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Sit at least 12 feet from analog television sets: Pacemaker interference from televisions is not a concern with modern devices. Routine household electronics, including TVs, do not produce significant electromagnetic fields, so this precaution is unnecessary for discharge teaching.
B. Avoid large sports fields: Open outdoor areas pose no electromagnetic risk to pacemakers. There is no evidence that sports fields interfere with device function, so this option does not represent appropriate safety guidance.
C. Do not stand near a microwave oven: Modern microwave ovens are shielded and safe for clients with pacemakers. Avoidance is outdated and unnecessary, and providing this instruction may increase anxiety without clinical value.
D. Monitor your pulse daily: Daily pulse monitoring is essential to detect pacemaker malfunction, such as failure to capture or pace. Tracking pulse changes helps the client identify abnormalities early and promotes timely reporting for follow-up care.
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