ATI RN
Questions to Ask About the Neurological System Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which patient should you, as charge nurse, assign to a new graduate RN who is orienting to the neurologic unit?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer to this question is option D, assigning the 54-year-old patient with Parkinson's who needs assistance with bathing to the new graduate RN. This choice is appropriate for several reasons. First, patients with Parkinson's disease often require specialized care and assistance with activities of daily living due to their motor impairments and unique needs. By assigning this patient to the new graduate RN, it provides an opportunity for the orientee to develop hands-on skills in caring for a patient with a neurological condition like Parkinson's. Option A, the 28-year-old patient with a spinal cord injury, may not be the best choice for a new graduate RN due to the complexity of care required for spinal cord injuries, which often involve specialized interventions and close monitoring. Option B, the 67-year-old patient with a recent stroke and left-sided weakness, may also not be ideal for a new graduate RN as caring for stroke patients involves acute management, monitoring for complications, and rehabilitation strategies that may require more experience. Option C, the 85-year-old dementia patient being transferred to long-term care, may not be the best choice for an orienting RN as dementia care often involves complex behavioral management, communication strategies, and understanding of cognitive impairments that may be challenging for a new nurse to handle independently. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of considering the complexity of patient conditions and the level of experience of the nurse when making patient assignments. It emphasizes the need for appropriate matching of patient acuity and nurse competency to ensure safe and effective care delivery. This scenario offers a practical example of how nurse leaders must assess the skill level of staff when assigning patients to promote learning and patient safety simultaneously.
Question 2 of 5
To prevent Mr. Smith from developing increased intracranial pressure, which nursing measure is INAPPROPRIATE?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Providing coughing and postural drainage at least twice a day. This measure is inappropriate because it can potentially increase intracranial pressure in a patient at risk, like Mr. Smith. Coughing and postural drainage can lead to increased pressure within the brain, which is counterproductive in preventing elevated intracranial pressure. Option A, keeping his neck straight and elevating the head of his bed 15-30°, is correct as it helps promote venous drainage and reduce intracranial pressure. Option B, restricting intake of fluids, is also appropriate as excess fluids can contribute to increased intracranial pressure. Option C, hyperventilating, is a measure used in emergencies to temporarily reduce intracranial pressure by causing vasoconstriction. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind each nursing measure is crucial for providing safe and effective care to patients with neurological issues. It is essential to prioritize interventions that will not exacerbate the condition and to be aware of the potential consequences of each action in order to optimize patient outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
Mrs. Jones, who has had multiple sclerosis for 10 years, has urinary incontinence, difficulty swallowing, contractures, and spastic ataxic gait. The nurse's assessment is that Mrs. Jones
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) is exhibiting progressive symptoms of multiple sclerosis. This is the most appropriate choice because the symptoms described in the question - urinary incontinence, difficulty swallowing, contractures, and spastic ataxic gait - are indicative of disease progression in multiple sclerosis. These symptoms suggest worsening neurological impairment rather than a lack of medication compliance (option A), need for rehabilitation teaching (option C), or being in a phase of remission (option D). In an educational context, understanding the progression of multiple sclerosis is crucial for healthcare providers caring for patients with this condition. Recognizing the signs of disease progression allows for timely intervention and appropriate management to improve the patient's quality of life. It also highlights the importance of ongoing assessment and monitoring in individuals with chronic neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Question 4 of 5
During the rehabilitation period, an assessment that may indicate development of septic shock is
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of the neurological system and rehabilitation, the correct answer to the question about an assessment that may indicate the development of septic shock being cloudy urine is rooted in understanding the physiological processes that occur in septic shock. Septic shock is a serious condition where an infection leads to a systemic inflammatory response, causing low blood pressure and inadequate tissue perfusion. Cloudy urine can indicate the presence of infection or inflammation in the body, which can be a sign of sepsis progression. Regarding the incorrect options: - Nausea is a non-specific symptom that can be caused by various factors and is not a specific indicator of septic shock. - Depression is a mental health condition and is not directly related to the physiological indicators of septic shock. - Hypertension is not typically associated with septic shock; instead, hypotension (low blood pressure) is a hallmark sign due to the systemic vasodilation and decreased vascular tone seen in septic shock. In an educational context, understanding the signs and symptoms of septic shock is crucial for healthcare professionals working in neurorehabilitation settings. This knowledge can help in early identification and prompt management of potentially life-threatening conditions, ensuring better patient outcomes. Educating healthcare providers on recognizing subtle signs like cloudy urine can lead to timely interventions and improved patient care.
Question 5 of 5
Following a closed reduction, a plaster-of-paris cast was applied to the left arm from the axilla to the wrist. To facilitate drying of the cast it would be most helpful to obtain Bob's cooperation in
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) exposing the cast to the air. Plaster-of-paris casts need to be exposed to air to dry properly. This allows the moisture in the cast to evaporate efficiently, leading to a more durable and well-formed cast. Option A, keeping the cast covered with a blanket, would actually hinder the drying process by trapping moisture within the cast. Option B, applying a heating pad to the cast, can be dangerous as it may lead to burns or uneven drying, compromising the integrity of the cast. Option C, sitting with the cast under a sun lamp, can also be harmful as excessive heat can cause discomfort or burns to the skin. In an educational context, understanding the correct method to care for a plaster-of-paris cast post-application is crucial for patient safety and comfort. By knowing how to facilitate proper drying of the cast, healthcare professionals can ensure the best outcomes for their patients in terms of immobilization and support for proper healing of the affected limb.