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 A
Explanation
A) VII: The facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) is responsible for controlling the muscles of facial expression. By assessing facial symmetry and movement, the nurse evaluates the integrity and function of this nerve, which is crucial for activities such as smiling, frowning, and raising eyebrows.
B) V: The trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V) is primarily responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as chewing. While it plays a role in facial movement, it does not specifically assess facial expressions.
C) III: The oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III) controls eye movement and pupil constriction. It does not directly influence facial expressions, so it is not the nerve being assessed in this context.
D) VI: The abducens nerve (cranial nerve VI) is responsible for lateral eye movement. It is unrelated to facial expression or symmetry and is not the focus of this assessment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Notify the healthcare provider that the client is exaggerating their pain: It is inappropriate for the nurse to assume that the client is exaggerating their pain based solely on their demeanor. Pain perception is subjective and can vary greatly among individuals, especially in conditions like sickle cell anemia.
B) Wait 30 minutes and see if the client is still requesting pain medication: Delaying pain relief can lead to unnecessary suffering. Given that the client rates their pain as a 7 out of 10, which indicates significant discomfort, it is essential to address their pain promptly rather than postponing treatment.
C) Administer the pain medication as prescribed: This is the most appropriate action. Clients with sickle cell anemia often experience severe pain crises, and effective pain management is crucial. Administering the medication as prescribed supports the client's comfort and well-being.
D) Administer half of the ordered dose of pain medication: Modifying the dosage without a provider's order is not appropriate. If the full prescribed dose is warranted based on the pain level, the nurse should administer it as indicated to ensure effective pain management.