Neurological Disorder NCLEX Related

Review Neurological Disorder NCLEX related questions and content

The client, diagnosed with an ischemic stroke, is being evaluated for thrombolytic therapy. Which assessment finding should prompt the nurse to withhold thrombolytic therapy?

  • A. Brain CT scan results show no bleeding.
  • B. Had a serious head injury four weeks ago.
  • C. Has a history of type 1 diabetes mellitus.
  • D. Neurological deficits started 2 hours ago.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A negative CT scan is a criterion for administering the thrombolytic therapy. Contraindications to thrombolytic therapy for the client with an ischemic stroke include a serious head injury within the previous 3 months. This would put the client at risk of developing serious bleeding problems, specifically cerebral hemorrhage. History of type 1 DM is not a contraindication for thrombolytic therapy. The onset of neurological deficits within 3 hours is a criterion for administering thrombolytic therapy.