When providing care for a comatose patient, how should a nurse evaluate motor responses?

By using the Romberg test

By assessing the patient’s sensitivity to temperature and touch

By observing the patient’s response to painful stimuli

By observing the reaction of pupils to light

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice C rationale
When providing care for a comatose patient, a nurse should evaluate motor responses by observing the patient’s response to painful stimuli. This can be done by applying a painful stimulus, such as a trapezius pinch or nailbed pressure, and observing the patient’s motor response. Purposeful or semi-purposeful movements, such as localizing or withdrawing from pain, can provide valuable information about the patient’s level of consciousness and neurological function.
Choice A rationale
The Romberg test is used to evaluate balance and is not typically used to evaluate motor responses in a comatose patient.
Choice B rationale
Assessing the patient’s sensitivity to temperature and touch can provide information about sensory function, but it does not directly evaluate motor responses.
Choice D rationale

Observing the reaction of pupils to light can provide information about cranial nerve function, but it does not directly evaluate motor responses.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale
The Rinne test is a hearing test used to evaluate the difference between sound transmission through air conduction versus bone conduction. It is not typically used following a Romberg test, which evaluates balance.
Choice B rationale
While ensuring the patient’s safety is always important, repositioning the client supine is not the typical response to slight swaying during a Romberg test.
Choice C rationale
Slight swaying during a Romberg test is considered normal. Therefore, documenting successful completion of the assessment would be the appropriate action.
Choice D rationale
A referral to a neurologist is not typically necessary for slight swaying during a Romberg test, as this is considered within normal limits.

A. Maintain a patent airway B. Place an intravenous catheter (IV) C. Administer diazepam, per order D. Insert a nasogastric tube (NG)

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Maintaining a patent airway is the highest priority when providing care for a patient in status epilepticus. Status epilepticus is a medical emergency characterized by prolonged or recurrent seizures. It can lead to severe complications, including respiratory distress and hypoxia.
Therefore, ensuring a patent airway is crucial to prevent hypoxia and further brain damage. This involves positioning the patient to prevent aspiration, potentially suctioning the airway, and providing supplemental oxygen as needed.
Choice B rationale
While placing an intravenous catheter (IV) is an important intervention, it is not the highest priority. An IV allows for the administration of medications and fluids, which are necessary in the management of status epilepticus. However, it is secondary to maintaining a patent airway.
Choice C rationale
Administering diazepam or other antiepileptic drugs is a key intervention in managing status epilepticus. These medications help to stop the seizures. However, medication administration should only occur after a patent airway has been established.
Choice D rationale
Inserting a nasogastric tube (NG) may be necessary in some cases to protect the airway or for administering medications or nutrition. However, this is not the highest priority intervention. The first step in managing status epilepticus is always to ensure a patent airway.

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When providing care for a comatose patient, how should a nurse evaluate motor responses?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

During the performance of a Romberg test, the nurse observes the client sway slightly. What action should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse is providing care for a patient in status epilepticus. What nursing intervention takes the highest priority?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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