A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing Cushing's Triad following a depressed skull fracture. In addition to administering appropriate medications, which of the following nursing interventions should the nurse prioritize for this client?
Encouraging the client to perform deep breathing exercises.
Elevating the head of the bed.
Administering a sedative.
Monitoring intracranial pressure (ICP).
The Correct Answer is D
A. Encouraging deep breathing exercises may help with respiratory function but does not address the immediate risks associated with increased ICP.
B. Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce ICP; however, the priority intervention is to closely monitor ICP to identify any changes in the client's condition.
C. Administering a sedative may be appropriate, but it is not as critical as monitoring ICP in a client with Cushing's Triad, where altered consciousness and respiratory changes may be present.
D. Monitoring ICP is crucial in this situation, as Cushing's Triad indicates a potential increase in ICP, and timely interventions can prevent further complications.
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Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
A. Hypertension can occur due to autonomic dysreflexia, especially in clients with cervical spinal cord injuries, as they may have exaggerated sympathetic responses.
B. A weakened gag reflex can result from cranial nerve involvement due to the cervical spinal cord injury, impacting the client's ability to protect their airway.
C. Absence of bowel sounds may indicate bowel immobility or dysfunction; however, it is not a direct complication of a cervical spinal cord injury.
D. Bradycardia is a common finding in cervical spinal cord injuries due to impaired sympathetic nervous system function, leading to decreased heart rate.
E. Tachycardia is less common in cervical injuries and is typically associated with lower injuries in the spinal cord.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Low levels of PTH would primarily affect calcium metabolism and would not directly explain short stature or delayed menarche.
B. Impaired production of GH is most likely the cause of short stature, as growth hormone plays a critical role in growth and development during childhood.
C. Lack of ACTH affects adrenal hormone production but does not directly lead to short stature or delayed menarche.
D. Impaired production of T3 and T4 would affect metabolism and growth but is less likely to be the primary cause of the symptoms presented compared to growth hormone deficiencies.