The nurse is explaining the transmission of nerve impulses to a patient with a spinal cord injury. What should the nurse explain as the structure that carries nerve impulses at synapses?
- A. Cell membrane
- B. Depolarizations
- C. Schwann cells
- D. Neurotransmitters
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Neurotransmitters are chemicals released at the synaptic end bulb of a neuron that carry nerve impulses across the synapse to the next neuron. The cell membrane and depolarizations are involved in the electrical aspect of impulse transmission, while Schwann cells form the myelin sheath. Neurotransmitters are key to understanding synaptic communication.
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For a patient diagnosed with dissociative amnesia, complete this outcome: Within 4 weeks, the patient will demonstrate an ability to execute complex mental processes by:
- A. functioning independently.
- B. verbalizing feelings of safety.
- C. regularly attending diversional activities.
- D. describing previously forgotten experiences.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient diagnosed with dissociative amnesia typically struggles with memory loss. By describing previously forgotten experiences, the patient demonstrates progress in accessing and processing their memories. This indicates improvement in their ability to execute complex mental processes.
A - Functioning independently is too broad and does not directly address the cognitive aspect of dissociative amnesia.
B - Verbalizing feelings of safety focuses more on emotional regulation rather than cognitive abilities.
C - Regularly attending diversional activities may be beneficial for overall well-being but does not specifically target the core issue of memory impairment in dissociative amnesia.
The presence of Bell's palsy suggests damage to the following cranial nerve:
- A. facial
- B. optic
- C. olfactory
- D. vestibular
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Facial nerve is the correct answer because Bell's palsy is a condition characterized by the sudden weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles on one side of the face due to inflammation or damage to the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This results in symptoms such as drooping of the mouth, inability to close the eye, and loss of facial expression.
Which of these cells are not a type of neuroglia found in the CNS:
- A. astrocytes
- B. microglia
- C. Schwann cells
- D. ependymal cells
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Schwann cells are a type of neuroglia found in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), not the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes, microglia, ependymal cells, and oligodendrocytes are all types of neuroglia found in the CNS. Thus, C is the correct answer.
A diagnosis of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm has been made in a patient with manifestations of a stroke. The nurse anticipates which treatment option that would be considered for the patient?
- A. Hyperventilation therapy
- B. Surgical clipping of the aneurysm
- C. Administration of hyperosmotic agents
- D. Administration of thrombolytic therapy
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Surgical clipping prevents further bleeding from a ruptured aneurysm
Which area of the brain-stem controls heart rate and breathing?
- A. reticular formation
- B. medulla
- C. pons
- D. thalamus
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The medulla oblongata, located in the brainstem, controls vital autonomic functions such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. It contains centers for regulating respiration and cardiovascular activity, making it essential for survival. Damage to the medulla can be life-threatening, as it disrupts these critical functions. The medulla also plays a role in reflexes like swallowing and vomiting.