A client with spinal cord injury at the level of T3 complains of a sudden severe headache and nasal congestion. The nurse observes that the client has a flushed skin with goose bumps. Which of the ff actions should the nurse first take?
- A. Raise the client's head
- B. Place the client on a firm mattress
- C. Call the physician
- D. Administer an analgesic to relieve the pain
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The sudden severe headache and nasal congestion in a client with a spinal cord injury at the level of T3, along with flushed skin, goose bumps, and potentially increased blood pressure due to autonomic dysreflexia. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention from a healthcare provider. Calling the physician ensures prompt assessment and treatment to prevent further complications associated with autonomic dysreflexia, such as hypertensive crisis, seizures, or stroke. It is important to address this situation promptly to prevent any serious consequences for the client's health.
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One of the side effects of INH administration is peripheral neuropathy. To prevent this effect, Nurse Carlos teaches Andrew to:
- A. have a strict low cholesterol diet
- B. get extra bed rest 
- C. supplement the diet with pyridoxine
- D. avoid excessive sun exposure
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B6, is necessary for the prevention of INH-induced peripheral neuropathy. INH can lead to a deficiency of vitamin B6 in the body, which in turn can cause nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy. By supplementing the diet with pyridoxine, the risk of developing peripheral neuropathy as a side effect of INH administration can be minimized. It is an important preventive measure recommended for those undergoing treatment with INH to ensure the proper functioning of the nervous system and prevent nerve damage.
Which of the ff. safety instructions should the nurse give a patient who has temporarily dilated pupils?
- A. Keep eyes closed
- B. Wear sunglasses
- C. Do not drive for 8 hours
- D. Avoid caffeinated beverages
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Dilated pupils can cause increased sensitivity to light, leading to discomfort or visual disturbances. Wearing sunglasses can help protect the eyes from bright light and reduce potential discomfort for the patient. This safety instruction is important to promote the patient's comfort and prevent any potential harm due to light sensitivity.
The nurse understands that which of the ff. best describes the action of enalapril maleate (Vasotec)?
- A. It decreases levels of angiotensin II
- B. It dilates the arterioles and veins
- C. It adjusts the extracellular volume
- D. It decreases cardiac output
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Enalapril maleate (Vasotec) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. The main action of ACE inhibitors like enalapril is to decrease the levels of angiotensin II in the body. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor that plays a role in regulating blood pressure, stimulating aldosterone secretion, and promoting sodium and water retention. By inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, enalapril reduces vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, leading to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, and ultimately decreased levels of angiotensin II. This mechanism allows for the dilation of arterioles and veins, reduction in cardiac afterload, and ultimately decreases the workload of the heart.
The LPN is caring for a patient in the preoperative period who, even after verbalizing concerns and having questions answered, states, "I know I am not going to wake up after surgery." Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Reassure patient everything will be all right
- B. Explain national surgery death rate
- C. Inform the registered nurse
- D. Ask family to comfort the patient
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct action for the LPN to take in this situation is to inform the registered nurse. The patient's statement indicates a high level of fear and anxiety about the surgery and their potential outcome. It is important to involve the registered nurse, who can provide further assessment, support, and interventions to address the patient's concerns appropriately. Simply reassuring the patient or providing statistics about national surgery death rates may not address the underlying fear and may require additional support and intervention. Asking the family to comfort the patient may not be the most appropriate immediate action as the patient's concerns are specific and may require professional support. Bringing the registered nurse into the situation allows for a comprehensive approach to addressing the patient's emotional needs before the surgery.
A 16 y.o. girl is diagnosed with genital herpes. She is tearful and as she asks what she can do to prevent complications of the disease. Based on the data provided, which nursing diagnosis is appropriate for her plan of care?
- A. Risk for transmission of infection
- B. Pain
- C. Health-seeking behaviours
- D. Ineffective sexuality pattern
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Given that the 16-year-old girl has been diagnosed with genital herpes and is concerned about preventing complications of the disease, the most appropriate nursing diagnosis would be "Risk for transmission of infection." Genital herpes is a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection, and individuals with the infection can transmit it to their partners through sexual contact. Therefore, it is crucial to educate the girl on ways to prevent the transmission of the infection to others. By addressing this nursing diagnosis, the healthcare team can provide guidance on safer sexual practices, including the use of condoms, abstinence during outbreaks, and communication with partners to prevent the spread of the infection. This nursing diagnosis focuses on promoting the girl's health and preventing further complications related to the transmission of genital herpes.