The nurse is assessing a patient with suspected bacterial meningitis and notes a positive Kernig sign. How should the nurse interpret this finding?
Pain in the neck when the patient flexes their head towards the chest
Involuntary flexion of the hips and knees when the neck is flexed
Photophobia and headache triggered by bright light
Pain and resistance when attempting to extend the patient's leg from a flexed position
The Correct Answer is D
A. Pain in the neck when the patient flexes their head towards the chest. This describes nuchal rigidity, not Kernig sign.
B. Involuntary flexion of the hips and knees when the neck is flexed. This describes Brudzinski sign, not Kernig sign.
C. Photophobia and headache triggered by bright light. These are symptoms of meningitis, but they are not specific to Kernig sign.
D. Pain and resistance when attempting to extend the patient's leg from a flexed position. A positive Kernig sign is when there is pain and resistance to leg extension from a flexed hip and knee position, indicating meningeal irritation.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Staying hydrated is essential in managing viral pharyngitis to prevent dehydration, soothe the throat, and promote recovery.
B. Take antibiotics as prescribed until the course is complete. Antibiotics are not indicated for viral infections; they are only used for bacterial infections.
C. Avoid all forms of physical activity until fully recovered. While rest is recommended, light activities may be acceptable depending on the patient’s energy levels and symptoms. Total avoidance of all physical activity is unnecessary.
D. Use throat lozenges as needed but avoid resting to prevent throat swelling. Resting is beneficial to recovery. Throat lozenges may soothe irritation, but avoiding rest would be counterproductive.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Serum sodium levels: Desmopressin can lead to water retention and potentially hyponatremia. Monitoring serum sodium is crucial to prevent electrolyte imbalance.
B. Serum magnesium levels: Magnesium is not typically impacted by desmopressin treatment in central diabetes insipidus.
C. Serum potassium levels: Desmopressin does not generally affect potassium levels in patients with diabetes insipidus.
D. Serum calcium levels: Calcium levels are not directly influenced by desmopressin or diabetes insipidus.