ATI LPN
Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017)
Chapter 66 : Management of Patients with Neurologic Dysfunction Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is postoperative day 1 following intracranial surgery. The nurses assessment reveals that the patients LOC is slightly decreased compared with the day of surgery. What is the nurses best response to this assessment finding?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Cerebral edema peaks 24-36 hours post-surgery, often causing decreased LOC. Hemorrhage is not confirmed, surgery success is premature to judge, and palliative care is not indicated.
Question 2 of 5
A school nurse is called to the playground where a 6-year-old girl has been found unresponsive and staring into space, according to the playground supervisor. How would the nurse document the girls activity in her chart at school?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Staring and unresponsiveness characterize an absence seizure, common in children. Generalized and focal seizures involve motor activity, and unclassified seizures lack clear patterns.
Question 3 of 5
A neurologic nurse is reviewing seizures with a group of staff nurses. How should this nurse best describe the cause of a seizure?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Seizures result from a dysrhythmia in a specific brain region's nerve cells. Electrolyte changes, peripheral nervous system issues, or blood flow disruptions are not primary causes.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient who has undergone supratentorial removal of a pituitary mass. What medication would the nurse expect to administer prophylactically to prevent seizures in this patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Phenytoin is used prophylactically post-supratentorial surgery to prevent seizures. Prednisone and dexamethasone are steroids, and Cafergot treats migraines.
Question 5 of 5
A hospital patient has experienced a seizure. In the immediate recovery period, what action best protects the patients safety?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A side-lying position prevents aspiration of secretions post-seizure. Padding rails, antianxiety drugs, or reassurance are secondary to airway safety.