Following a lumbar puncture, a client voices several concerns. Which concern indicates to the nurse that the client is experiencing a complication of the procedure?
"I have a headache that gets worse when I sit up."
"I am having pain in my lower back when I move my legs."
"I feel sick to my stomach and am going to throw up."
"My throat hurts badly when I swallow and when I talk."
The Correct Answer is A
A. A headache that worsens upon sitting up is characteristic of a post-lumbar puncture headache, indicating a potential complication related to cerebrospinal fluid leakage.
B. Pain in the lower back after the procedure can be normal and does not necessarily indicate a complication.
C. Nausea and vomiting can occur but are not specific indicators of a complication following a lumbar puncture.
D. Sore throat when swallowing and talking is not typically associated with lumbar puncture complications and may relate to other causes such as anxiety or dehydration.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administering aspirin is not appropriate at this time, as it may delay treatment for a stroke if that is the underlying cause.
B. Maintaining elevated positioning of the dependent joints is not a priority in this acute situation and does not address the immediate needs of the client showing signs of possible stroke.
C. Verifying laboratory tests like prothrombin time and platelet count is important but is not an immediate intervention that addresses the acute condition.
D. Starting two large bore IV catheters and reviewing criteria for IV fibrinolytic therapy is crucial because the client presents with signs of a potential stroke. Rapid identification and treatment are essential to improving outcomes in acute ischemic stroke cases.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Encouraging physical activity, such as walking, is important for cardiovascular health, but it is not a measurable outcome related to the client's current condition of blurred vision and cardiovascular disease.
B. While educating the family about signs and symptoms is valuable, it does not directly address the client's health status or outcomes that can be measured.
C. A target blood pressure of less than 160/90 mm Hg does not adequately control hypertension and may still pose a risk to cardiovascular health, especially given the blurred vision, which could indicate possible complications.
D. Setting a goal for the client’s daily blood pressure to be less than 140/80 mm Hg is a clear, measurable outcome that indicates effective management of hypertension and promotes overall cardiovascular health. This target is aligned with current clinical guidelines for hypertension management.