Which information provided by the patient would help distinguish a hemorrhagic stroke from a thrombotic stroke?
Presence of motor weakness.
Sensory changes.
Sudden onset of severe headache.
History of hypertension.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Motor weakness is a common symptom in both hemorrhagic and thrombotic strokes because both types of stroke disrupt blood flow to brain regions responsible for motor control. Ischemic damage or compression from hemorrhage within motor cortex or descending motor tracts can lead to similar presentations of contralateral hemiparesis or hemiplegia, making it non-specific for differentiation.
Choice B rationale
Sensory changes, such as paresthesia or numbness, can occur in both hemorrhagic and thrombotic strokes. This is due to damage to sensory pathways in the brain, including the thalamus or somatosensory cortex. The specific location and extent of brain injury determine the precise sensory deficits, which can be similar regardless of stroke etiology.
Choice C rationale
A sudden onset of severe headache is a hallmark symptom distinguishing hemorrhagic stroke. This intense headache, often described as "the worst headache of my life," results from the rapid increase in intracranial pressure and meningeal irritation caused by blood extravasation into the subarachnoid space or brain parenchyma, unlike thrombotic strokes.
Choice D rationale
A history of hypertension is a significant risk factor for both hemorrhagic and thrombotic strokes. Chronic uncontrolled hypertension damages arterial walls, predisposing them to rupture in hemorrhagic stroke or promoting atherosclerosis and thrombus formation in ischemic stroke. Therefore, its presence does not specifically differentiate between the two types.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["50"]
Explanation
Step 1: Determine the volume needed. (250 mg ÷ 25 mg) × 5 mL = 50 mL.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Observing for facial symmetry assesses the function of cranial nerve VII (facial nerve), which controls facial expressions. Asymmetry, such as drooping of one side of the face, would indicate a deficit in this nerve, not cranial nerve III.
Choice B rationale
Testing visual acuity assesses the function of cranial nerve II (optic nerve), which transmits visual information from the retina to the brain. This involves using a Snellen chart or similar methods to determine the clarity and sharpness of vision.
Choice C rationale
Checking the pupillary response to light assesses the function of cranial nerve III (oculomotor nerve). This nerve is responsible for pupillary constriction (miosis) in response to light, as well as controlling most extraocular movements and eyelid elevation.
Choice D rationale
Eliciting the gag reflex assesses the function of cranial nerves IX (glossopharyngeal nerve) and X (vagus nerve). Stimulation of the posterior pharynx normally elicits a gag reflex, indicating intact sensory and motor function of these nerves involved in swallowing and protecting the airway.
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