The nurse performs a neurological assessment and determines the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score is 15. What will the nurse do next?
Re-assess in 15 minutes
Ask the patient to open eyes on command
Document the findings
Notify the physician
The Correct Answer is C
A) Re-assess in 15 minutes: While regular assessments are important in a neurological evaluation, if the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score is 15, indicating the patient is fully alert and oriented, there may not be an immediate need to re-assess so soon unless the patient's condition changes.
B) Ask the patient to open eyes on command: If the GCS score is already determined to be 15, this indicates that the patient is responsive and capable of opening their eyes spontaneously. Asking the patient to open their eyes is unnecessary in this context since the score already reflects full responsiveness.
C) Document the findings: Documenting the GCS score of 15 is crucial as it establishes a baseline for the patient’s neurological status. This documentation is essential for ongoing assessments and monitoring, providing a record of the patient’s condition at this moment.
D) Notify the physician: Notifying the physician is not required for a GCS score of 15, as this score indicates a normal level of consciousness. Communication with the physician would be warranted only if there were changes in the patient's condition or a lower GCS score observed.
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Correct Answer is ["C","E"]
Explanation
A) "I have cut back on fat and switched to a vegetarian diet." This statement suggests a positive change in dietary habits, which can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. A vegetarian diet, particularly if it includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. Therefore, this statement does not indicate an increased risk.
B) "I have cut back on my smoking." While reducing smoking is a positive step, smoking itself is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, the statement indicates an attempt to decrease risk, which does not inherently suggest an increased risk. It may show improvement rather than risk.
C) "I have been stressed out since my divorce last year." Chronic stress is a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular disease, as it can lead to behaviors such as poor diet, inactivity, and increased blood pressure. This statement highlights a significant concern for the client’s cardiovascular health.
D) "I have an occasional glass of wine." Moderate alcohol consumption is sometimes associated with cardiovascular benefits. While excessive drinking can pose risks, this statement alone does not indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. It reflects moderation rather than concern.
E) "I have gained 25 pounds over the past year." Weight gain, especially if it leads to obesity, is a significant risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease. This statement indicates a change in health status that could negatively impact the client’s cardiovascular risk profile.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Chronic pain: Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for an extended period, often longer than three months, and is usually associated with conditions that are ongoing or recurring. The client’s symptoms, including sudden-onset severe pain and accompanying acute symptoms like nausea and vomiting, do not align with the characteristics of chronic pain.
B) Intractable pain: Intractable pain refers to pain that is resistant to treatment and does not respond well to analgesics or other interventions. While the client's pain is severe, the sudden onset and associated symptoms suggest a specific acute process rather than a pain condition that is inherently resistant to treatment.
C) Acute pain: Acute pain is characterized by its sudden onset and typically corresponds to a specific injury or condition, often with accompanying physiological responses such as nausea and restlessness. The client’s severe pain rating of 10, along with nausea and vomiting, strongly indicates that they are experiencing acute pain, likely related to an underlying acute abdominal condition.
D) End-of-life pain: End-of-life pain usually occurs in patients with terminal illnesses and is often managed with palliative care strategies. The client’s sudden onset of severe pain and accompanying symptoms indicate a different situation, likely not related to a terminal condition.