A nurse is in the emergency department (ED) and is caring for a client that has arrived by ambulance after a cervical spinal cord injury. Which assessment should be the priority for the nurse to perform at this time?
Assess the client's respiratory status and airway patency.
Assess the client's extremity strength and sensation.
Assess the client's pain level and provide pain management.
Assess the client's level of consciousness and orientation.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Assessing respiratory status and airway patency is the highest priority in this situation due to the risk of respiratory compromise from cervical spinal cord injuries, which can affect the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles.
B. While assessing extremity strength and sensation is important, it comes after ensuring the client’s airway and breathing are stable.
C. Pain management is essential, but addressing immediate life-threatening conditions takes precedence over pain assessment.
D. Assessing the client's level of consciousness is crucial for overall evaluation but does not take priority over ensuring adequate respiratory function in the context of a cervical spinal cord injury.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Insufficient insulin production is related to diabetes mellitus, not Cushing's syndrome.
B. Long-term use of glucocorticoids is a well-known exogenous cause of Cushing's syndrome, as it leads to excess cortisol in the body.
C. Adrenal insufficiency refers to a deficiency of adrenal hormones and would not cause Cushing's syndrome, which is characterized by excess hormones.
D. Overproduction of growth hormones is associated with acromegaly or gigantism, not Cushing's syndrome, which primarily involves excess cortisol.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.