ATI Community Leadership Disaster and Neuro Related

Review ATI Community Leadership Disaster and Neuro related questions and content

A nurse is assessing a client who was brought into the emergency room following a seizure. The nurse suspects the client may have meningococcal meningitis when assessment findings include nuchal rigidity and a petechial rash. After implementing droplet precautions, which of the following actions should the nurse initiate next?

  • A. Administer an antipyretic
  • B. Complete a vascular assessment
  • C. Assess the cranial nerves
  • D. Decrease environmental stimuli
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Assess the cranial nerves. Meningococcal meningitis can affect the cranial nerves, leading to symptoms such as photophobia, altered mental status, and cranial nerve deficits. Assessing the cranial nerves will help the nurse to further evaluate the client's neurological status and identify any abnormalities that may indicate the severity of the condition. Administering an antipyretic (A) may help reduce fever but does not address the underlying issue. Completing a vascular assessment (B) is not a priority in this situation. Decreasing environmental stimuli (D) may be helpful for a seizure but is not the next priority after implementing droplet precautions.