health assessment exam 1 test bank Related

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When a nurse is performing a neurological assessment, which of the following is most important to assess first?

  • A. Patient's reflexes
  • B. Patient's cranial nerve function
  • C. Patient's level of consciousness
  • D. Patient's pupil response
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Patient's level of consciousness. Assessing the patient's level of consciousness is crucial in a neurological assessment as it provides immediate information on the overall function of the brain. Changes in consciousness can indicate serious neurological issues such as head injuries or stroke. It is essential to prioritize assessing consciousness first to determine the urgency of the situation. Assessing reflexes (A), cranial nerve function (B), and pupil response (D) are also important in a neurological assessment but come after assessing the patient's level of consciousness, as they provide more specific and detailed information about the neurological status.