Which intervention would the nurse identify as a priority when monitoring a patient recovering from a craniotomy?
Monitor the patient for pain.
Monitor the patient for increased intracranial pressure (ICP).
Monitor the patient for an infection.
Monitor the patient for excessive bleeding or hemorrhage.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Pain management is important, but it is not the highest priority compared to life-threatening complications like increased ICP.
B. Increased intracranial pressure is a critical and potentially life-threatening complication following a craniotomy. Monitoring for signs of increased ICP (e.g., altered level of consciousness, pupil changes, headache, vomiting) is a top priority to prevent brain herniation and other severe outcomes.
C. Infection is a concern, particularly at the surgical site, but it typically develops over time and is not as immediately life-threatening as increased ICP.
D. Hemorrhage is a serious complication, but signs of bleeding often contribute to increased ICP. Therefore, ICP monitoring encompasses broader neurological assessment and takes priority
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
A quiet and calm environment helps reduce stimuli that can increase ICP and cause discomfort.
B. Minimizing procedures that cause agitation prevents spikes in ICP and patient distress.
C. Too many or prolonged family visits can overstimulate the patient, increasing ICP and discomfort.
D. Excessive interaction may overstimulate the patient; interaction should be limited based on tolerance.
E. Early identification and intervention for agitation help maintain stable ICP and patient comfort.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Decorticate posturing is characterized by flexion of the arms, wrists, and fingers, along with adduction of the upper extremities, and is typically a sign of damage to the cerebral hemispheres.
B. Epileptic seizures involve abnormal electrical activity in the brain and present with convulsions or altered consciousness, not specific posturing.
C. Decerebrate posturing involves extension of the arms and legs and is usually a sign of more severe brainstem damage.
D. A stroke can lead to various neurologic deficits but does not specifically describe this type of posturing.
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