ATI RN
Neurological Review of Systems Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following clients are more likely to suffer from a cerebral hematoma?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this question, option D, "A client with atrial fibrillation on Coumadin," is more likely to suffer from a cerebral hematoma. Coumadin (warfarin) is a blood thinner commonly prescribed for atrial fibrillation to prevent blood clots. While it is effective in preventing clot formation, it can also increase the risk of bleeding, including in the brain, leading to cerebral hematoma. Option A, a client with a family history of hemophilia but no symptoms, is less likely to suffer from a cerebral hematoma because hemophilia is a genetic disorder that affects blood clotting factors, not necessarily predisposing to cerebral hematomas. Option B, a client receiving platelets for a low platelet count, is less likely to have a cerebral hematoma as platelets are essential for blood clotting and would decrease the risk of bleeding. Option C, a client with anemia taking iron, is also less likely to suffer from a cerebral hematoma as anemia does not directly increase the risk of bleeding in the brain. Understanding the relationship between medical conditions, medications, and their potential complications is crucial in clinical practice. This question highlights the importance of considering the effects of medications like Coumadin on specific conditions like atrial fibrillation and the associated risks of cerebral hematoma. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to carefully assess the benefits versus risks of medications in each individual patient to optimize their care and outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
When caring for a patient in the severe stage of AD, what diversion or distraction activities would be appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In caring for a patient in the severe stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD), it is crucial to provide appropriate diversion or distraction activities to improve their quality of life and reduce agitation. Option D, "Mobiles or dangling ribbons," is the most appropriate choice in this scenario. These types of stimuli can engage the patient's visual and tactile senses, providing sensory stimulation and promoting relaxation. Watching TV (Option A) may be overwhelming for a patient with severe AD due to the fast-paced nature of programs and the potential confusion it can cause. Playing games (Option B) may require cognitive abilities that the patient has lost, leading to frustration. Books to read (Option C) may not be suitable as the patient may have difficulty comprehending or focusing on the content. Educationally, understanding the specific needs and limitations of patients with AD is crucial for healthcare professionals. Providing appropriate activities can enhance the patient's well-being and overall care experience. By choosing the right diversion or distraction techniques, caregivers can create a more comfortable and supportive environment for individuals with severe AD.
Question 3 of 5
Two days following a spinal cord injury, a patient asks continually about the extent of impairment that will result from the injury. What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct response to the patient's inquiry, "The extent of your injury cannot be determined until the secondary injury to the cord is resolved," is the best choice because it aligns with the clinical reality of spinal cord injuries. In the acute phase following a spinal cord injury, it is challenging to predict the full extent of neurological impairment due to factors such as spinal shock and secondary injury processes. Providing a definitive prognosis at this early stage can be misleading to the patient and may not reflect the long-term outcomes accurately. Option A is incorrect because it oversimplifies the complex nature of spinal cord injuries by suggesting that normal function will return once spinal shock resolves, which is not always the case. Option C is incorrect as an MRI in the acute phase may not fully reveal the extent of damage until the spinal cord has had time to stabilize. Option D is incorrect because while rehabilitation can impact functional outcomes, it is not solely responsible for determining the complete effect of the injury. Educationally, understanding the unpredictable nature of spinal cord injuries highlights the importance of ongoing assessment, monitoring, and patient education. It is crucial for healthcare providers to communicate effectively with patients and manage expectations based on the current clinical understanding of spinal cord injury recovery processes.
Question 4 of 5
During the patient's process of grieving for the losses resulting from spinal cord injury, what should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of a patient grieving losses due to a spinal cord injury, option A is the correct choice because it acknowledges the complex nature of grief and emphasizes the importance of ongoing support. Grieving over such a significant loss is indeed a lifelong process, and the nurse should help the patient understand this reality. This approach encourages the patient to accept their emotions and seek support when needed, fostering resilience and adaptive coping strategies. Option B is incorrect because the stages of grief are not linear; individuals may move back and forth between stages, and acceptance may not always be the final outcome. Limiting the grieving process to specific stages oversimplifies the complexity of emotions experienced by the patient. Option C is incorrect as it dismisses the patient's valid emotions and can be perceived as invalidating. Anger is a common and natural response to loss and should be acknowledged and supported rather than dismissed. Option D is also incorrect because setting a timeline for the grieving process is unrealistic and can add pressure to the patient, potentially hindering their emotional healing. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of grief in healthcare settings. It emphasizes the need for nurses to provide continuous, compassionate support to patients experiencing loss, especially in the context of life-altering injuries like spinal cord injury. By choosing option A, nurses can foster a therapeutic relationship with the patient based on empathy, understanding, and long-term support.
Question 5 of 5
The patient was referred to the office by the school nurse for a lateral curvature of the spine. The nurse knows this is called
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) scoliosis. Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, often detected through screenings like the one performed by the school nurse in this case. Lordosis (A) is an inward curvature of the spine, typically in the lower back, commonly known as "swayback." Ankylosis (C) refers to abnormal stiffening and immobility of a joint, not a spinal curvature issue. Kyphosis (D) is an excessive outward curvature of the spine, leading to a rounded or hunched back. In an educational context, understanding common terms related to spinal conditions is crucial for healthcare professionals to accurately communicate, diagnose, and treat patients. Identifying scoliosis early through screenings allows for timely interventions to prevent further progression and potential complications. By linking theoretical knowledge with practical scenarios like this question, healthcare providers can enhance their diagnostic skills and improve patient care outcomes.