A nurse is caring for a client who has had a hemorrhagic stroke following a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
Gradual onset of headache.
Changes in consciousness.
Gradual onset of several hours.
History of neurologic deficits lasting less than 1 hr.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
A gradual onset of headache is more characteristic of other types of headaches or conditions, such as tension headaches or migraines. Hemorrhagic strokes, particularly those caused by a ruptured cerebral aneurysm, typically present with a sudden and severe headache, often described as the “worst headache of my life.” This sudden onset is due to the rapid accumulation of blood in the brain, which increases intracranial pressure and causes immediate symptoms.
Choice B reason:
Changes in consciousness are a common manifestation of a hemorrhagic stroke. The sudden bleeding into the brain can disrupt normal brain function, leading to symptoms such as confusion, lethargy, or loss of consciousness. These changes occur rapidly and are a key indicator of a serious neurological event. The nurse should be vigilant for any alterations in the client’s level of consciousness, as this can signify worsening of the condition and the need for immediate medical intervention.
Choice C reason:
A gradual onset of several hours is not typical for hemorrhagic strokes. These strokes usually present with sudden and severe symptoms due to the abrupt rupture of a blood vessel in the brain. The rapid increase in intracranial pressure from the bleeding causes immediate and severe symptoms, rather than a slow progression over hours.
Choice D reason:
A history of neurologic deficits lasting less than 1 hour is more indicative of a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke. TIAs are temporary and resolve within a short period without causing permanent damage. In contrast, a hemorrhagic stroke caused by a ruptured cerebral aneurysm results in immediate and severe symptoms that do not resolve quickly and require urgent medical attention.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Hypertension is a common manifestation of increased intracranial pressure (ICP). As ICP rises, the body attempts to maintain cerebral perfusion by increasing blood pressure. This compensatory mechanism helps ensure that the brain continues to receive adequate blood flow despite the elevated pressure.
Choice B reason:
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is not a typical manifestation of increased ICP. While it can be a symptom of various conditions, it is not specifically associated with elevated intracranial pressure.
Choice C reason:
Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is not a manifestation of increased ICP. In fact, the body typically responds to increased ICP with hypertension to maintain cerebral perfusion. Hypotension would be concerning for other reasons but is not indicative of elevated intracranial pressure.
Choice D reason:
Tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, is not a primary manifestation of increased ICP. While changes in heart rate can occur with severe neurological conditions, hypertension is a more direct indicator of elevated intracranial pressure.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Analgesics, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may provide some relief for mild pain but are generally not effective for the severe, neuropathic pain associated with Trigeminal neuralgia. This condition requires medications that specifically target nerve pain.
Choice B reason:
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and are not effective for treating neuropathic pain conditions like Trigeminal neuralgia. This type of pain is not caused by an infection, so antibiotics would not be appropriate.
Choice C reason:
Anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine and gabapentin, are the most effective medications for treating Trigeminal neuralgia. These drugs help stabilize nerve activity and reduce the frequency and intensity of pain episodes. They are considered the first-line treatment for this condition.
Choice D reason:
Antihistamines are used to treat allergic reactions and are not effective for neuropathic pain. They do not have the properties needed to manage the severe pain associated with Trigeminal neuralgia.