HESI PN Exit Exam 2024 Quizlet Related

Review HESI PN Exit Exam 2024 Quizlet related questions and content

A client is recovering from a craniotomy and has a ventriculostomy in place. The nurse notices the drainage from the ventriculostomy is suddenly increasing. What should the nurse do first?

  • A. Increase the head of the bed to 45 degrees.
  • B. Clamp the ventriculostomy tube.
  • C. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
  • D. Measure the client's head circumference.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A sudden increase in drainage from a ventriculostomy could indicate a serious complication such as increased intracranial pressure or hemorrhage. The priority action in this situation is to notify the healthcare provider immediately to ensure prompt evaluation and intervention. Increasing the head of the bed may be beneficial in some situations but is not the first action to take. Clamping the ventriculostomy tube is inappropriate as it can lead to increased intracranial pressure. Measuring the client's head circumference is not the priority when there is a sudden increase in ventriculostomy drainage.