ATI LPN
Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition
Chapter 37 : Caring for Clients With Central and Peripheral Nervous System Disorders Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a 30-year-old client diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Which statement by the client would indicate a need for more teaching from the nurse?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: There is no known cause for ALS, and no reason to suspect genetic inheritance. ALS usually begins with muscle weakness of the arms and progresses. The client is encouraged to remain active for as long as possible to prevent respiratory complications.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client with Bell palsy. Which of the following teaching points is a priority in the management of symptoms for this client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The VII cranial nerve supplies muscles to the face. In Bell palsy, the eye can be affected which results in incomplete closure and risk for injury. The eye can become dry and irritated unless eye moisturizing drops and ophthalmic ointment is applied. Avoiding stimuli that can trigger pain is specific to tic douloureux (cranial nerve V disorder). Encouraging dental exams is a part of care but not the priority. Antibiotics are not used in the treatment of Bell's palsy because it is thought to be caused by a virus.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with Parkinson disease. Which topic is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan for this client?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The primary focus in caring for Parkinson disease is on maintaining a safe environment. Parkinson disease often has a propulsive gait, characterized by a tendency to take increasingly quicker steps while walking and an inability to stop abruptly without losing balance. Prevention of communicable diseases and establishing a balanced nutrition is encouraged with any chronic disorder. Diversional activities can be helpful in times of stress but not a priority.
Question 4 of 5
A client falls to the floor in a generalized seizure with tonic-clonic movements. Which is the first action taken by the nurse?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When a client begins to convulse, the highest priority is to maintain airway. This can best be accomplished by turning client to side-lying position, which allows saliva and emesis to drain from the mouth. Turning the client also allows the tongue to fall forward opening the airway. More damage can occur if a bite block is inserted after the seizure has begun. Manually restraining extremities is not recommended. Attempting to take blood pressure is not recommended and pulse rate and respirations during the event will not be beneficial. Monitor vital signs during the postictal phase.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who has a generalized seizure. Which nursing assessment is a priority for detailing the event?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Describing the length and the progression of the seizure is a priority nursing responsibility. During this time, the client will experience respiratory spasms, and the skin will appear cyanotic, indicating a period of lack of tissue oxygenation. Noting when the seizure began and presence of an aura are also valuable pieces of information. Postictal behavior should be documented along with vital signs, oxygen saturation, and assessment of tongue and oral cavity.