Which intervention would the nurse implement as the priority when providing care for a patient with a ventriculostomy to measure increased intra-cranial pressure (ICP) caused by a brain tumor?
Beware of changes in ICP related to leaking cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
Maintain hyper-oxygenation through use of a ventilator
Use strict aseptic technique with all procedural dressing changes
Administer IV mannitol (Osmitrol)
The Correct Answer is C
A. Monitoring for CSF leakage is crucial to avoid infection and to maintain ICP accuracy.
B. Hyper-oxygenation may be used in certain cases but is not the priority.
C. Aseptic technique for all procedures and dressing changes is critical to prevent infection.
D. Administering IV mannitol can be important, but aseptic technique is the priority to prevent infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) is crucial for maintaining adequate blood flow to the brain. A CPP of 80 mm Hg is typically considered the lower limit for preserving cerebral perfusion, particularly in patients with elevated ICP.
B. 20 mm Hg is too low and would indicate inadequate perfusion, which could result in brain ischemia.
C. 40 mm Hg is too low for optimal cerebral perfusion in critically ill patients with elevated ICP.
D. 60 mm Hg is also too low for optimal cerebral perfusion in critically ill patients with elevated ICP.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The BP must be lower than 180/105 mm Hg to receive fibrinolytic agents, not 130/70 mm Hg.
B. Elevated BPs are common immediately after a stroke, but drug therapy to lower BP is not initiated unless it reaches high levels (typically > 220/120 mm Hg).
C. A lower BP does not act as a protective response; maintaining a higher BP can be necessary initially after a stroke to ensure adequate cerebral perfusion.
D. If BP is 220/120 mm Hg or higher after ischemic stroke, aggressive antihypertensive therapy is initiated to reduce the risk of hemorrhagic transformation and other complications.
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