A nurse is caring for a client who has a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). Which of the following manifestations should the nurse immediately report to the provider?
Diplopia
Ataxia
A change in the Glasgow Coma Scale score from 13 to 11
A decrease in heart rate from 76 to 69 bpm
The Correct Answer is C
A. Diplopia is a concerning symptom but does not indicate immediate deterioration in neurological status like a change in GCS does.
B. Ataxia is also significant but is less acute than a drop in GCS score.
C. A change in the Glasgow Coma Scale score from 13 to 11 indicates a worsening level of consciousness and necessitates immediate reporting, as it may suggest increased intracranial pressure or other complications.
D. A decrease in heart rate from 76 to 69 bpm is not significant enough in the context of TBI to warrant immediate reporting, as it remains within a normal range.
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Explanation
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B. Vitamin D supplements would actually increase calcium levels by enhancing intestinal absorption, so this option is not appropriate in hypercalcemia.
C. Administering fluids helps to dilute serum calcium levels and promote renal excretion of calcium, making it a priority treatment.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A short-term, low-dose steroid use (one week) has minimal risk for adrenal suppression.
B. Three weeks of steroids increases risk, but daily use presents a higher risk.
C. Prolonged daily steroid use, especially in an older adult, poses the greatest risk for adrenal insufficiency due to suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
D. Intermittent steroid use is less likely to cause adrenal insufficiency compared to daily long-term use.