ATI RN
ATI Neurological System Questions Questions
Question 1 of 4
The nurse is evaluating the status of a client who had a craniotomy 3 days ago. The nurse would suspect the client is developing meningitis as a complication of surgery if the client exhibits:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A positive Brudzinski's sign, where flexion of the neck causes involuntary flexion of the hips and knees, is a classic sign of meningitis. Meningitis is a potential complication after craniotomy due to the breach in the protective meninges, allowing pathogens to enter the central nervous system. Other signs include fever, headache, and nuchal rigidity.
Question 2 of 4
The nurse is reviewing the results of a patient's diagnostic tests which show changes in nerve insulation. What structure should the nurse explain to the patient that electrically insulates neurons?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The myelin sheath is a phospholipid layer that electrically insulates neurons, allowing for faster transmission of nerve impulses. Astrocytes are a type of neuroglial cell, gray matter contains cell bodies, and interneurons facilitate communication within the central nervous system. The myelin sheath's role in nerve function is critical for understanding neurological disorders.
Question 3 of 4
A patient is scheduled for a lumbar puncture. Which action should the nurse take when preparing this patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
Question 4 of 4
While collecting data the nurse learns that a patient with a neurological illness has not had a sense of smell for several decades. Which part of the central nervous system should the nurse question as being damaged in this patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The olfactory nerve (cranial nerve I) originates in the temporal lobe, and damage to this area can result in anosmia (loss of smell). The brainstem, occipital lobe, and hypothalamus are not directly involved in the sense of smell. Assessing olfactory function can provide clues about neurological damage.