ATI RN
Neurological System Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
At the scene of the accident in which position should Joe be placed before being transported by ambulance to the emergency room?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In a medical emergency situation like an accident, placing the patient in the correct position can be crucial for their well-being. In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Supine position with head in neutral position. Placing Joe in a supine position with his head in a neutral position helps maintain proper alignment of the spine and ensures adequate blood flow to the brain. This position also minimizes the risk of further injury, especially in cases where there may be suspected head, neck, or spinal trauma. Option A) The position in which he was found is not ideal as it may not be the safest or most stable position for Joe, and it could exacerbate any potential injuries he may have sustained. Option B) Lateral position with arms flexed is not recommended in this case as it is more suitable for patients who are unconscious and need to maintain an open airway. Joe's condition and injuries are not specified in the question to warrant this position. Option D) Supine position with head flexed is also incorrect as flexing the head can potentially worsen any spinal injuries Joe may have sustained during the accident. Educationally, understanding the importance of proper patient positioning in emergency situations is vital for healthcare providers, first responders, and even the general public. It can make a significant difference in patient outcomes and prevent further harm. Proper training and knowledge of basic first aid principles, including correct positioning, can save lives and minimize complications in critical situations.
Question 2 of 5
For the patient who has expressive aphasia following a cerebrovascular accident, the most therapeutic nursing intervention would be to
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the case of a patient with expressive aphasia following a cerebrovascular accident, the most therapeutic nursing intervention would be to select option B) talk to the patient as if he understands. This is the correct choice because even though the patient may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, they often have intact comprehension abilities. By speaking to the patient as if they understand, the nurse acknowledges their cognitive capabilities and respects their dignity. Option A) keeping verbal nurse-patient interchanges to a minimum is incorrect because it can lead to increased feelings of isolation and frustration for the patient. Communication is vital for nursing care and limiting it unnecessarily can hinder the patient's recovery and well-being. Option C) avoiding the use of objects or gestures to communicate is also incorrect because patients with expressive aphasia may benefit from alternative forms of communication such as using gestures, pictures, or objects to aid in understanding and expressing themselves. Option D) keeping the sound of a radio or television audible in the background is not a therapeutic intervention for a patient with expressive aphasia. It may even serve as a distraction and make communication more difficult for the patient. Educationally, it is crucial for healthcare providers to understand the importance of effective communication strategies when caring for patients with neurological deficits such as aphasia. By utilizing appropriate communication techniques, nurses can enhance the quality of care, improve patient outcomes, and promote a sense of dignity and autonomy for the individual.
Question 3 of 5
Mrs. C. has a right hemiplegia secondary to a cerebrovascular accident. To avoid aspiration during meals she would be instructed to avoid
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) swallowing with her head slightly flexed. This is because individuals with right hemiplegia often have difficulty with swallowing due to impaired muscle control and coordination on the affected side. By flexing the head slightly to the left, Mrs. C. can help direct the food bolus to the stronger, unaffected side of her mouth, making it easier to swallow without the risk of aspiration. Option B) placing food in the left side of her mouth is incorrect because this would not address the underlying issue of impaired swallowing coordination. Option C) eating in an upright position is generally recommended for individuals with swallowing difficulties to aid in the passage of food down the esophagus. Option D) lying down immediately after eating can increase the risk of aspiration as gravity may cause food or liquid to enter the airway. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind these recommendations is crucial for healthcare professionals working with patients with neurological conditions. By knowing the specific strategies to help patients like Mrs. C. prevent complications such as aspiration pneumonia, healthcare providers can offer more effective support and improve patient outcomes.
Question 4 of 5
A patient in traction frequently voices discomfort. Which one of the following complaints by Mrs. Iris would indicate beginning decubitus formation?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) Burning pain in the sacral area. This complaint indicates the beginning of decubitus formation, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores. Decubitus ulcers commonly occur in patients under traction due to prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body. Burning pain in the sacral area is a classic early symptom of pressure ulcer development, signaling tissue damage from prolonged pressure. Option A) Numbness of her toes on her left foot is more indicative of nerve compression or impaired circulation, not specific to decubitus formation. Option B) Pain around the insertion of the Kirschner wire is likely related to the hardware and its positioning, rather than decubitus formation. Option C) Stiffness and aching of the right ankle could be related to immobility or positioning in traction but are not specific signs of decubitus formation. Educationally, it is crucial for healthcare providers to recognize early signs of pressure ulcers in patients under traction to prevent complications. Teaching patients and caregivers about proper positioning, regular skin assessments, and pressure relief strategies is essential in preventing decubitus ulcers and promoting optimal patient outcomes.
Question 5 of 5
In helping Mrs. Iris plan her diet, which of the following foods would the nurse help her to select?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In helping Mrs. Iris plan her diet, the nurse would help her select foods that are beneficial for her neurological health. Option A, Chicken, is the correct choice because it is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for maintaining and repairing nerve cells. Protein also helps in neurotransmitter function, which is crucial for proper neurological function. Option B, Milk, while being a good source of calcium and vitamin D, does not directly impact neurological health as significantly as lean protein does. Option C, Ice cream, is high in sugar and saturated fats, which can lead to inflammation and negatively impact neurological health over time. Option D, Cheese, is also high in saturated fats and may not be the best choice for Mrs. Iris's neurological health. In an educational context, understanding the role of nutrition in neurological health is crucial for nurses to help patients like Mrs. Iris make informed dietary choices that support their overall well-being. By choosing lean protein sources like chicken, individuals can better support their neurological function and overall health.