When the patient's initial vital signs after a brain injury were a BP of 132/72 mm Hg, pulse 100 beats/min, respirations 24 breaths/min, which subsequent vital signs would the nurse report immediately to the health care provider?
BP 126/54 mm Hg, pulse 58 beats/min, respirations 10 breaths/min
BP 112/56 mm Hg, pulse 98 beats/min, respirations 28 breaths/min
BP 129/65 mm Hg, pulse 60 beats/min, respirations 20 breaths/min
BP 172/54 mm Hg, pulse 58 beats/min, respirations 10 breaths/min
The Correct Answer is D
A. BP 126/54 mm Hg, pulse 58 beats/min, respirations 10 breaths/min - While the low pulse and respirations should be assessed, this blood pressure isn't as concerning.
B. BP 112/56 mm Hg, pulse 98 beats/min, respirations 28 breaths/min - These vital signs are within a safer range compared to the critical changes in D.
C. BP 129/65 mm Hg, pulse 60 beats/min, respirations 20 breaths/min - These are stable vital signs.
D. The BP of 172/54 mm Hg, combined with bradycardia (pulse of 58 beats/min) and hypoventilation (respirations of 10 breaths/min), is indicative of Cushing's triad, a late sign of increased intracranial pressure, which is an emergency requiring immediate attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
A. Decreasing Glasgow Coma scores indicate a worsening neurological status and reduced consciousness.
B. Swelling of the optic nerve (papilledema) is a sign of increased ICP and indicates worsening conditions.
C. A respiratory rate of 12/min may be within normal range for some individuals but can also be a sign of impending respiratory depression in cases of severe ICP. However, it is not as immediately concerning as the other options in this case.
D. Changes in pupil size and shape are classic signs of worsening ICP. Unequal or nonreactive pupils are a key indicator.
E. Blood pressure of 108/74 mm Hg is not concerning unless it represents a significant drop from the baseline; other signs of worsening ICP are more critical in this case.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Encourage the client to use his right hand when feeding himself: This would be inappropriate since the patient likely has impaired vision in the left field.
B. Provide a nonskid mat to alleviate plate movement: This may be helpful for safety, but it does not address the visual deficit.
C. Encourage the use of wide grip utensils: This may assist with fine motor skills but doesn't directly help with vision problems.
D. Remind the client to look for food on the left side of the tray: This is important because homonymous hemianopsia affects one visual field, and the nurse should encourage the patient to scan their environment to locate food.
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