The nurse suspects a subarachnoid hemorrhage in a patient admitted to the emergency department. Which of the following symptoms is commonly seen in a patient diagnosed with a subarachnoid hemorrhage?
Severe headache
Generalized weakness
Gradual blurry vision
Chest pain
The Correct Answer is A
A. A severe headache, often described as a "thunderclap" headache or the worst headache of the patient’s life, is a classic symptom of subarachnoid hemorrhage due to irritation of the meninges and increased intracranial pressure.
B. Generalized weakness may occur in some neurological conditions but is not a hallmark symptom of subarachnoid hemorrhage.
C. Gradual blurry vision is more associated with conditions like increased intracranial pressure or other eye-related issues rather than acute subarachnoid hemorrhage.
D. Chest pain is not typically associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage; it may indicate other conditions such as myocardial infarction or pulmonary issues.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The head tilt chin lift method should be avoided due to the risk of aggravating a spinal injury; the jaw-thrust maneuver is safer if airway management is necessary.
B. While controlling bleeding is important, cervical spine stabilization takes priority in trauma with suspected spinal injury.
C. Not moving the victim is appropriate, but stabilizing the cervical spine provides active support to avoid further injury.
D. Stabilizing the cervical spine is crucial to prevent potential spinal cord damage in an unconscious trauma victim, particularly in a motor vehicle accident. This action helps prevent exacerbation of any spinal injury.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Nitroprusside is a vasodilator and is not used for managing ICP; it can increase intracranial pressure if not carefully monitored.
B. Furosemide is a diuretic but is less effective for ICP reduction compared to hypertonic saline or mannitol.
C. Hypertonic saline (3% Normal Saline) is used to reduce intracranial pressure by drawing fluid out of the brain tissue and into the bloodstream, which can help prevent cerebral edema.
D. Norepinephrine is a vasopressor and is not used specifically to manage intracranial pressure.