The incidence of ischemic stroke in patients with TIAs and other risk factors is reduced with the administration of which medication?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of neurological system assessment and stroke prevention, the correct answer to the question is option C) Daily low-dose aspirin. This is because aspirin, specifically in low doses, is a well-established medication for reducing the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with TIAs (transient ischemic attacks) and other risk factors. Aspirin works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, thereby reducing the formation of blood clots that can lead to blockages in the blood vessels supplying the brain, causing an ischemic stroke. Option A) Furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic often used to manage fluid retention but does not play a role in stroke prevention. Option B) Lovastatin (Mevacor) is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular events but is not specifically indicated for stroke prevention. Option D) Nimodipine (Nimotop) is a calcium channel blocker that is used in certain situations related to subarachnoid hemorrhage but is not the recommended medication for reducing the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with TIAs. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate medications for stroke prevention is crucial for healthcare professionals involved in assessing and managing patients at risk for cerebrovascular events. By knowing the rationale behind the use of daily low-dose aspirin in this population, healthcare providers can make informed decisions to optimize patient care and reduce the incidence of ischemic strokes. It is essential to reinforce the importance of evidence-based practice and staying updated on current guidelines to deliver high-quality care to patients at risk for stroke.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In assessing Parkinson's disease, the correct answer is B) relief of symptoms with administration of dopaminergic agents. This is the gold standard for confirming Parkinson's disease as it is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopamine deficiency in the brain. Dopaminergic agents help alleviate symptoms by increasing dopamine levels. Option A) CT and MRI scans are not typically used to confirm Parkinson's disease as they do not directly show the specific dopamine deficiency that characterizes the disease. These imaging techniques may be used to rule out other conditions that could present with similar symptoms. Option C) the presence of tremors that increase during voluntary movement is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease, but it is not specific enough to confirm the diagnosis on its own as other conditions can also cause tremors. Option D) cerebral angiogram revealing cerebral atherosclerosis is unrelated to Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's is not caused by atherosclerosis, but rather by the degeneration of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. Educationally, understanding the diagnostic criteria for Parkinson's disease is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately identify and manage patients with this condition. Knowing the importance of dopaminergic agents in symptom relief helps in providing appropriate treatment and improving patient outcomes. It is also essential to differentiate Parkinson's disease from other conditions with similar symptoms to ensure proper management and care.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Self-care activities. When assessing the neurological system, the nurse must consider the impact on the patient's ability to perform self-care activities such as grooming, bathing, toileting, and dressing. Neurological conditions can affect motor skills, coordination, and cognitive function, making it challenging for patients to engage in these activities independently. Option A) Eating could be impacted by neurological conditions, but it is not the most comprehensive answer in terms of addressing the patient's overall self-care needs. Option B) Walking focuses on mobility, which is also important but does not encompass the full range of self-care activities. Option C) Dressing is a specific aspect of self-care, but choosing option D) demonstrates a broader understanding of the patient's holistic needs. In an educational context, understanding the impact of neurological conditions on self-care activities is crucial for nurses to provide comprehensive and patient-centered care. By selecting option D), nurses demonstrate their ability to assess the patient's functional abilities comprehensively and identify areas where the patient may require assistance or accommodations. This knowledge is essential for developing individualized care plans and promoting the patient's independence and quality of life.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Cover the cast with a light blanket to avoid chilling from evaporation. This is the correct action to take because when a hip spica cast is applied, it is important to prevent chilling from the drying process. Covering the cast with a light blanket helps retain the patient's body heat and prevents hypothermia. Option A) Elevating the legs above the level of the heart for 24 hours is not necessary and could potentially cause discomfort to the patient with a hip spica cast. Option B) Turning the patient every 2 hours is important for preventing pressure ulcers and maintaining circulation, but it is not the immediate priority while the cast is drying. Option D) Assessing the patient frequently for abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting is important in general care but is not directly related to the application of the hip spica cast. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the specific care requirements for patients with different types of casts to prevent complications and ensure optimal recovery. Teaching correct procedures for cast care is essential to promote patient comfort and safety.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, option C, "Reduce pain and muscle spasms before surgery," is the correct answer. Buck's traction is commonly used in patients with hip fractures to alleviate pain, reduce muscle spasms, and prevent further displacement of the fracture before surgical intervention. By applying traction, the muscles surrounding the fracture are relaxed, which helps to decrease pain and muscle spasms. This preparatory step is crucial before surgery to ensure better outcomes and facilitate the surgical procedure. Option A, "Pull bone fragments back into alignment," is incorrect because traction is not typically used to directly realign bone fragments in an extracapsular hip fracture. This type of fracture usually requires surgical intervention for realignment and stabilization. Option B, "Immobilize the leg until healing is complete," is not the primary purpose of Buck's traction. While immobilization is important, the main goal of Buck's traction in this context is to provide pain relief and muscle relaxation. Option D, "Prevent damage to the blood vessels at the fracture site," is not the primary purpose of Buck's traction. While traction can indirectly help by reducing muscle spasms and preventing further displacement of the fracture, its main purpose in this case is pain management and muscle relaxation. From an educational standpoint, understanding the rationale behind using Buck's traction in orthopedic care is essential for nursing students and healthcare professionals. It is important to grasp the specific goals and benefits of traction in different clinical scenarios to provide effective patient care and optimize outcomes.