When the patient has a rapidly growing brain tumor, what slows expansion of cerebral brain tissue into the adjacent hemisphere?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of a rapidly growing brain tumor, the correct answer is B) Falx cerebri. The falx cerebri is a structure within the brain that acts as a partition between the two cerebral hemispheres. When a brain tumor is rapidly expanding, the falx cerebri serves to limit the spread of cerebral brain tissue into the adjacent hemisphere by acting as a physical barrier. Option A) Ventricles are fluid-filled spaces in the brain that do not play a role in limiting the expansion of brain tissue. Option C) Arachnoid layer is a protective membrane covering the brain, but it does not specifically slow the expansion of brain tissue in the case of a tumor. Option D) Tentorium cerebelli is a structure that separates the cerebrum from the cerebellum and does not directly impede the expansion of brain tissue between cerebral hemispheres. Educationally, understanding the anatomy of the brain structures like the falx cerebri is crucial in comprehending how the brain responds to pathological conditions such as brain tumors. This knowledge is essential for healthcare professionals, particularly neurologists and neurosurgeons, in diagnosing and managing brain tumors effectively. It also underscores the importance of precise anatomical knowledge in clinical decision-making and patient care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the acute phase of spinal cord injury, maintaining urinary function is crucial to prevent complications such as urinary retention, urinary tract infections, and renal damage. The correct answer, option A - An indwelling catheter, is the most appropriate intervention in this scenario. Indwelling catheters are commonly used in acute spinal cord injuries to ensure continuous drainage of urine, thus reducing the risk of bladder distension and related complications. This method helps in managing urinary retention efficiently and minimizes the risk of autonomic dysreflexia, a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in individuals with spinal cord injuries. Option B - Intermittent catheterization, although a valid method for managing bladder function in some cases, may not be suitable in the acute phase of spinal cord injury where continuous monitoring and drainage of urine are required. Option C - Insertion of a suprapubic catheter is another method of managing urinary function but is not typically the first choice in the acute phase of spinal cord injury when immediate and continuous drainage is needed. Option D - Using incontinent pads to protect the skin is not a sufficient method for managing urinary function in the acute phase of spinal cord injury, as it does not address the need for proper bladder drainage and monitoring. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate interventions for managing urinary function in spinal cord injury is essential for healthcare providers working with these patients. Knowledge of the correct interventions can help prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. It is crucial to prioritize evidence-based practices to ensure the best care for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Corticosteroids. When a patient reports taking corticosteroids, the nurse should be alert to potential bone and muscle impairment. Corticosteroids can cause osteoporosis, leading to bone weakening and increased risk of fractures. They can also cause muscle weakness and atrophy, impacting overall muscle function. Option B) Oral hypoglycemic agents are used to lower blood sugar levels in diabetic patients and do not directly impact bone or muscle function. Option C) Potassium-depleting diuretics primarily affect electrolyte balance, particularly potassium levels, but do not have a direct effect on bone or muscle function impairment. Option D) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for pain relief and reducing inflammation but do not specifically cause bone or muscle impairment as seen with corticosteroids. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the potential side effects of medications to provide safe and effective care to patients. Recognizing the implications of different drug classes on various body systems allows nurses to anticipate complications, provide appropriate interventions, and educate patients on potential risks associated with their medications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Pathologic fracture. A pathologic fracture occurs when a bone breaks under normal stress or with minimal trauma due to underlying conditions like osteoporosis. It is crucial for the nurse to document this accurately to provide a comprehensive picture of the patient's health status. Option A) Open fracture refers to a fracture where the bone breaks through the skin, which is not the case in this situation. Option B) Oblique fracture describes a break at an angle across the bone, which is not specific to the context of a fracture in a patient with osteoporosis. Option D) Greenstick fracture is a type of incomplete fracture seen in children, typically from bending forces, not related to osteoporosis-induced fractures in adults. Educationally, understanding the types of fractures and their characteristics is essential for healthcare professionals, especially nurses, to accurately assess, document, and provide appropriate care for patients with fractures. Connecting the type of fracture to the underlying condition aids in proper diagnosis and management, highlighting the significance of precise documentation in healthcare settings.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of a patient with unilateral neglect due to sensory-perceptual deficits, the correct nursing intervention during rehabilitation is option C) Teach the patient to care consciously for the affected side. This intervention is crucial as it aims to promote awareness and engagement of the neglected side, fostering neuroplasticity and functional recovery. By actively involving the patient in caring for the affected side, the brain is stimulated to rewire and improve sensorimotor functions. Option A) Avoid positioning the patient on the affected side is incorrect as it does not address the core issue of neglect and may perpetuate the lack of attention to that side. Option B) Place all objects for care on the patient's unaffected side enables avoidance rather than active involvement of the neglected side, hindering rehabilitation progress. Option D) Protect the affected side from injury with pillows and supports, while important for safety, does not directly target the underlying neglect issue. It is essential to prioritize interventions that promote patient participation and reintegration of the neglected side into daily activities to achieve optimal outcomes in neurological rehabilitation. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind choosing active patient engagement over passive strategies is vital for nurses and healthcare professionals working with patients with neurological deficits. By empowering patients to participate in their care, we not only enhance their rehabilitation outcomes but also promote independence and self-efficacy, which are fundamental goals in neurological nursing practice.