Which of the following are priority nursing assessments related to a client post-op transsphenoidal hypophysectomy for a tumor of the pituitary g (Select All that Apply.)
Monitor for increased intracranial pressure
Monitor incision under the top lip for infection
Assess for signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Development of meningitis
Assess for signs of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak
Correct Answer : A,B,D,E
A. Monitor for increased intracranial pressure is correct. Following a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, it is essential to monitor for signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) due to the proximity of the surgery to the brain and the risk of complications such as bleeding, swelling, or fluid buildup. Symptoms of increased ICP include headache, nausea, vomiting, and altered level of consciousness.
B. Monitor incision under the top lip for infection is correct. The incision for a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy is typically made under the top lip or at the base of the nose, and it is essential to monitor this site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, drainage, or increased pain.
C. Assess for signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is incorrect. Although DVT prevention (e.g., ambulation, use of compression stockings) is important after surgery, monitoring for DVT is not a priority assessment specifically related to a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy. The other assessments are more directly related to potential complications from this specific type of surgery.
D. Development of meningitis is correct. Meningitis is a potential complication after a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, especially if there is a breach in the nasal cavity or sinus, allowing for infection to spread. Signs of meningitis include fever, nausea, stiff neck, and headache.
E. Assess for signs of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is correct. A CSF leak is a serious complication of transsphenoidal surgery, as it can occur if the dura is punctured during the procedure. This leads to leakage of cerebrospinal fluid, which may manifest as a clear, watery drainage from the nose, a condition that should be assessed for immediately to prevent further complications like infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Prevent infections NPSG.07.01.01: This goal focuses on reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections through practices like hand hygiene and infection control protocols.
B. The 2025 Hospital National Patient Safety Goals (NPSGs) include several key objectives aimed at improving patient safety. Among the options provided, NPSG.03.04.01, which focuses on using medicines safely, is one of the goals displayed during the Room of Errors group activity in Classroom 4 on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
C. Improve staff communication NPSG.02.03.01: This goal aims to enhance communication among healthcare team members, particularly regarding critical test results, to ensure timely and accurate patient care.
D. Identify patient safety risks NPSG.15.01.01: This goal addresses the identification and mitigation of patient safety risks, including suicide risk assessment and prevention strategies.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypoactive deep tendon reflexes is incorrect. Hypocalcemia often leads to hyperactive reflexes, not hypoactive reflexes. This is because calcium plays a role in muscle and nerve function, and a deficiency can cause heightened neuromuscular irritability.
B. Constipation is incorrect. Constipation is more commonly associated with hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels), not hypocalcemia. Low calcium levels tend to cause muscle spasms and neuromuscular symptoms rather than gastrointestinal issues.
C. Tingling of the extremities is correct. Tingling or paresthesia of the extremities is a common symptom of hypocalcemia. It occurs due to increased nerve excitability caused by low calcium levels, which can lead to muscle cramps, tetany, and numbness.
D. Shortened QT intervals is incorrect. A shortened QT interval is typically associated with hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), not hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia is more likely to cause a prolonged QT interval on the ECG.
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