The nurse is caring for a client who sustained a head injury in a motor vehicle accident and is diagnosed with a subdural hematoma and increased intracranial pressure. Which nursing intervention is appropriate for this client?
Keeping the room brightly lit.
Encouraging coughing and deep breathing exercises.
Placing the client in a supine position.
Implementing seizure precautions.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Keeping the room brightly lit can be overstimulating and may increase ICP; therefore, a calm, dimly lit environment is preferable.
B. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing exercises could increase ICP and should be avoided unless specifically indicated.
C. Placing the client in a supine position is not recommended for clients with increased ICP; they should typically be positioned with the head elevated to promote venous drainage.
D. Implementing seizure precautions is critical as head injuries can lead to seizures, and ensuring the client's safety is a priority.
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Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Reducing body weight can relieve pressure on the lumbar spine, which can help decrease pain and improve function.
B. Avoiding painful positions helps prevent exacerbation of symptoms and protects the affected area.
C. Physical therapy is an important part of conservative treatment to strengthen supporting muscles, improve flexibility, and promote recovery. Chiropractic therapy may be recommended but should be guided by a physician's recommendation.
D. NSAIDs are commonly prescribed to manage inflammation and relieve pain associated with lumbar herniated disks.
E. Corticosteroids may be prescribed in some cases but are generally not part of initial conservative management unless inflammation is severe and not managed by NSAIDs.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Turning the client onto their operative side could increase pressure on the eye and is not an appropriate first action.
B. Administering prescribed pain medication and antiemetic is essential to address the client's severe pain and nausea, which are priority concerns in the postoperative period.
C. While it may be necessary to notify the surgeon if symptoms persist, the immediate priority is to alleviate the client's discomfort.
D. Reassuring the client that these symptoms are normal is misleading; severe pain and nausea postoperatively should be addressed promptly.