The nurse documents that the client's pupillary reaction is PERRLA. What is the "A" in this assessment describing about the client's eyes?
Changes in peripheral vision in response to light
Involuntary blinking in the presence of bright light
Pupillary dilation when looking at a near object
Pupillary constriction when looking at a near object
The Correct Answer is D
A) Changes in peripheral vision in response to light: While peripheral vision is important in a comprehensive eye assessment, it is not specifically evaluated through the PERRLA acronym. PERRLA focuses on how the pupils respond to light and accommodation, not on peripheral vision changes.
B) Involuntary blinking in the presence of bright light: Involuntary blinking is part of a reflex action known as the blink reflex, which helps protect the eyes from bright lights and foreign objects. However, this response is not what the "A" in PERRLA refers to, which is more specifically about pupillary reactions to focus.
C) Pupillary dilation when looking at a near object: When focusing on a near object, the pupils actually constrict rather than dilate. This process, known as accommodation, is important for clear vision at close distances but does not pertain to the dilation of pupils.
D) Pupillary constriction when looking at a near object: The "A" in PERRLA stands for accommodation, which specifically refers to the pupils constricting when a person looks at a nearby object. This reaction helps the eyes focus properly and is a normal finding in a healthy neurological assessment. Thus, option D accurately describes the "A" in the PERRLA assessment.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Splint and immobilize the extremity: While immobilizing the injured extremity is important to prevent further injury, it should follow an initial assessment of blood flow and nerve function to ensure there are no vascular or neurological compromises.
B) Apply an ice pack to the ankle: Applying ice can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. However, it is essential first to assess the circulation to the limb to ensure that applying ice will not worsen any underlying issues.
C) Encourage weight bearing and ambulation: Encouraging weight bearing on a potentially injured ankle can lead to further damage and is not appropriate. The priority is to assess the injury and understand its severity.
D) Assess pulse, color, temperature, and capillary refill: This step is crucial as it evaluates the vascular status of the limb. Assessing these factors helps identify any potential complications, such as compartment syndrome or inadequate blood flow, and guides further management of the injury.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Increased muscle weakness: Guillain-Barré syndrome is characterized by the rapid onset of muscle weakness, which typically starts in the lower extremities and ascends. The nurse would expect to find varying degrees of muscle weakness as a hallmark symptom, which may progress to involve the upper limbs and respiratory muscles.
B) Pronounced muscle atrophy: While muscle weakness is a significant feature of Guillain-Barré syndrome, pronounced muscle atrophy is not typically seen immediately. Muscle atrophy may occur over time due to disuse but is not a direct initial finding upon assessment.
C) Diminished visual acuity: Visual acuity may not be directly affected in Guillain-Barré syndrome. While some patients may experience ocular symptoms, diminished visual acuity is not a primary feature of the syndrome and would not be expected as a common assessment finding.
D) Impaired cognitive reasoning: Guillain-Barré syndrome primarily affects the peripheral nervous system and does not usually impact cognitive function. Patients typically maintain full cognitive abilities, so the nurse should not anticipate findings