A nurse is caring for a client in an induced coma for increased intracranial pressure (ICP). What should the nurse assess next to determine this client's cerebral function?
Glasgow Coma Scale
Pupillary size and reaction
Blood pressure and heart rate
Gag Reflex
The Correct Answer is B
A. The Glasgow Coma Scale is useful for assessing consciousness levels but may not be as sensitive for changes in brainstem function in a patient already in an induced coma.
B. Assessing pupillary size and reaction provides critical information on brainstem function and can indicate changes in ICP. Changes in pupil size and reaction can signify worsening cerebral function or brain herniation.
C. Blood pressure and heart rate are vital signs that can suggest increased ICP, but they are not as direct an indicator of cerebral function as pupil assessment.
D. The gag reflex is important but does not provide as direct information about cerebral function related to ICP as pupillary assessment does.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hormone replacement is generally used to supplement deficiencies rather than inhibit excess hormone release.
B. Dopamine agonists, such as bromocriptine, are used to inhibit the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary, which is beneficial in treating acromegaly, a condition caused by excess growth hormone.
C. Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement and is not effective in controlling pituitary hormone release.
D. Corticosteroids do not inhibit growth hormone release and are typically used to manage inflammation rather than for pituitary hormone control.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Baked fish is rich in iodine, which supports thyroid function and can be beneficial for clients with hypothyroidism. Iodine is necessary for thyroid hormone production.
B. Tuna salad may contain iodine, but it is not as reliable a source as baked fish and may also contain added fats.
C. Bran flakes are high in fiber, which can interfere with the absorption of thyroid medications.
D. Cantaloupe, while nutritious, does not provide significant levels of iodine or nutrients that directly support thyroid function.