Chapter 14: Nervous System Alterations Sole: Introduction To Critical Care Nursing, 7th Edition

Chapter 14: Nervous System Alterations
Sole: Introduction to Critical Care Nursing, 7th Edition
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. The nurse admits a patient to the critical care unit following a motorcycle crash. Assessment
findings by the nurse include blood pressure 100/50 mm Hg, heart rate 58 beats/min,
respiratory rate 30 breaths/min, and temperature of 100.5°F. The patient is lethargic,
responds to voice but falls asleep readily when not stimulated. Which nursing action is most
important to include in this patient’s plan of care?
a. Frequent neurological assessments
b. Side to side position changes
c. Range-of-motion to extremities
d. Frequent oropharyngeal suctioning
ANS: A
Nurses complete neurological assessments based on prescribed frequency and the severity of
the patient’s condition. The newly admitted patient has an altered neurological status, so
frequent neurological assessments are most important to include in the patient’s plan of care.
Side to side position changes, range-of-motion exercises, and frequent oral suctioning are
nursing actions that may need to be a part of the patient’s plan of care, but in the setting of
increased intracranial pressure they should not be regularly performed unless indicated.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: p. 350

OBJ: Describe the nursing and medical management of patients with increased intracranial
pressure. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Planning
MSC: NCLEX Client Needs Category: Physiological Integrity
2. A patient with a head injury has an intracranial pressure (ICP) of 18 mm Hg. The blood
pressure is 144/90 mm Hg, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) is 108 mm Hg. What is the
cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP)?
a. 54 mm Hg
b. 72 mm Hg
c. 90 mm Hg
d. 126 mm Hg
ANS: C
CPP = MAP – ICP. In this case, CPP = 108 mm Hg – 18 mm Hg = 90 mm Hg. All other
calculated responses are incorrect.

OBJ: Complete an assessment on a critically ill patient with nervous system injury.
TOP: Nursing Process Step: Assessment
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3. While caring for a patient with a traumatic brain injury, the nurse assesses an ICP of 20 mm
Hg and a CPP of 85 mm Hg. What is the best interpretation by the nurse?
a. Both pressures are high.
b. Both pressures are low.
c. ICP is high; CPP is normal.
d. ICP is high; CPP is low.
ANS: C
The ICP is above the normal level of 0 to 15 mm Hg. The CPP is within the normal range.
All other listed responses are incorrect.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: p. 354

4. The nurse is caring for a mechanically ventilated patient with a sustained ICP of 18 mm Hg.
The nurse needs to perform an hourly neurological assessment, suction the endotracheal
tube, perform oral hygiene care, and reposition the patient to the left side. What is the best
action by the nurse?
a. Hyperoxygenate during endotracheal suctioning.
b. Elevate the patient’s head of the bed 30 degrees.
c. Apply bilateral heel protectors after repositioning.
d. Provide rest periods between nursing interventions.
ANS: D
Sustained increases in ICP lasting longer than 5 minutes should be avoided. This is
accomplished by spacing nursing care activities to allow for rest between activities. All
other nursing actions are a part of the patient’s plan of care; however, spacing out
interventions is the priority.

pressure. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Intervention
5. While caring for a patient with a basilar skull fracture, the nurse assesses clear drainage
from the patient’s left naris. What is the best nursing action?
a. Have the patient blow the nose until clear.
b. Insert bilateral cotton nasal packing.
c. Place a nasal drip pad under the nose.
d. Suction the left nares until the drainage clears.
ANS: C
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In the presence of suspected cerebrospinal fluid leak, drainage should be unobstructed and
free flowing. Small bandages may be applied to allow for fluid collection and assessment.
Patients should be instructed not to blow their nose because that action may further
aggravate the dural tear. Suction catheters should be inserted through the mouth rather than
the nose to avoid penetrating the brain due to the dural tear.

OBJ: Describe the nursing and medical management of patients with skull fractures.
TOP: Nursing Process Step: Intervention
6. The nurse is caring for a patient who was hit on the head with a hammer. The patient was
unconscious at the scene briefly but is now conscious upon arrival at the emergency
department with a GCS score of 15. One hour later, the nurse assesses a GCS score of 3.
What is the priority nursing action?
a. Stimulate the patient hourly.
b. Continue to monitor the patient.
c. Elevate the head of the bed.
d. Notify the provider immediately.
ANS: D
These are classic symptoms of epidural hematomas: injury, lucid period, and progressive
deterioration. The provider must be notified of this neurological emergency so that
appropriate interventions can be implemented. Although elevating the head of the bed,
continuously monitoring the patient, and applying stimulation as necessary to assess
neurological response are appropriate interventions, notification of the provider is a priority
given the severity in change of neurological status.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: p. 369

7. The nurse is caring for a patient with an ICP of 18 mm Hg and a GCS score of 3. Following
the administration of mannitol (Osmitrol), which assessment finding by the nurse requires
further action?
a. ICP of 10 mm Hg
b. CPP of 70 mm Hg
c. GCS score of 5
d. CVP of 2 mm Hg
ANS: D
Osmotic diuretics draw water from normal brain cells, decreasing ICP and increasing CPP
and urine output. An ICP of 10 mm Hg and CPP of 70 mm Hg are within normal limits. A
GCS score of 5, while not optimum, indicates a slight improvement. A CVP of 2 mm Hg
indicates hypovolemia. To ensure adequate cerebral perfusion, further action on the part of
the nurse is necessary.
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pressure. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Evaluation
8. The nurse is caring for a mechanically ventilated patient with a brain injury. Arterial blood
gas values indicate a PaCO2 of 60 mm Hg. The nurse understands this value to have which
effect on cerebral blood flow?
a. Altered cerebral spinal fluid production and reabsorption
b. Decreased cerebral blood volume due to vessel constriction
c. Increased cerebral blood volume due to vessel dilation
d. No effect on cerebral blood flow (PaCO2 of 60 mm Hg is normal)
ANS: C
Cerebral vessels dilate when PaCO2 levels increase, increasing cerebral blood volume.
To compensate for increased cerebral blood volume, cerebral spinal fluid may be displaced,
but the scenario is asking for the effect of hypercarbia (elevated PaCO2) on cerebral blood
flow. PaCO2 of 60 mm Hg is elevated, which would cause cerebral vasodilation and
increased cerebral blood volume.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remember/Knowledge REF: p. 344

OBJ: Describe the pathophysiology of increased intracranial pressure.
9. The nurse assesses a patient with a skull fracture to have a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 3.
Additional vital signs assessed by the nurse include blood pressure 100/70 mm Hg, heart
rate 55 beats/min, respiratory rate 10 breaths/min, oxygen saturation (SpO2) 94% on oxygen
at 3 L per nasal cannula. What is the priority nursing action?
a. Monitor the patient’s airway patency.
b. Elevate the head of the patient’s bed.
c. Increase supplemental oxygen delivery.
d. Support bony prominences with padding.
ANS: A
A GCS score of 3 is indicative of a deep coma. Given the assessed respiratory rate of 10
breaths/min combined with the GSC score of 3, the nurse must focus on maintaining the
patient’s airway. There is no evidence to support the need for increased supplemental
oxygen. A respiratory rate of 10 breaths/min may result in increased CO2 retention, which
may further increase ICP through dilatation of cerebral vessels. Elevating the head of the
bed and supporting bony prominences are appropriate nursing interventions for a patient in a
deep coma; however, airway patency is the immediate priority.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application

REF: p. 351 | p. 360 Nursing Care Plan
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pressure. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Implementation
10. The nurse is caring for a patient who has a diminished level of consciousness and who is
mechanically ventilated. While performing endotracheal suctioning, the patient reaches up
in an attempt to grab the suction catheter. What is the best interpretation by the nurse?
a. The patient is exhibiting extension posturing.
b. The patient is exhibiting flexion posturing.
c. The patient is exhibiting purposeful movement.
d. The patient is withdrawing to stimulation.
ANS: C
This is a good example of purposeful movement that is sometimes seen in patients with
reduced consciousness. Flexion posturing is characterized by rigid flexion and extension of
the arms, wrist flexion, and clenched fists. Extension posturing is characterized by rigid
extension of arms and legs with plantar extension of the feet. Withdrawing occurs when a
patient moves an extremity away from a painful source of stimulation.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension

REF: p. 351 | Figure 14-7
11. The nurse is caring for a patient admitted to the emergency department following a fall from
a 10-foot ladder. Upon admission, the nurse assesses the patient to be awake, alert, and
moving all four extremities. The nurse also notes bruising behind the left ear and straw-
colored drainage from the left naris. What is the most appropriate nursing action?
a. Insert bilateral ear plugs.
b. Monitor airway patency.
c. Maintain neutral head position.
d. Apply a small nasal drip pad.
ANS: D
Patient assessment findings are indicative of a skull fracture. The presence of straw-colored
nasal draining may be indicative of a CSF leak. Drainage should be monitored and allowed
to flow freely. Application of a nasal drip pad is the most appropriate action. Monitoring
airway patency and maintaining the head in a neutral position are not priorities in a patient
who is awake and alert. Insertion of bilateral ear plugs is not standard of care.

OBJ: Describe the nursing and medical management of patients with skull fractures.
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12. While caring for a patient with a closed head injury, the nurse assesses the patient to be alert
with a blood pressure 130/90 mm Hg, heart rate 60 beats/min, respirations 18 breaths/min,
and a temperature of 102°F. To reduce the risk of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in
this patient, what is (are) the priority nursing action(s)?
a. Ensure adequate periods of rest between nursing interventions.
b. Insert an oral airway and monitor respiratory rate and depth.
c. Maintain neutral head alignment and avoid extreme hip flexion.
d. Reduce ambient room temperature and administer antipyretics.
ANS: D
In this scenario, the patient’s temperature is elevated, which increases metabolic demands.
Increases in metabolic demands increase cerebral blood flow and contribute to increased
intracranial pressure (ICP). Cooling measures should be implemented. Insertion of an oral
airway in an alert patient is contraindicated. While maintaining neutral head position and
ensuring adequate periods of rest between nursing interventions are appropriate actions for
patients with elevated ICP, treatment of the fever is of higher priority.

REF: p. 360 Nursing Care Plan
13. The nurse responds to a high heart rate alarm for a patient in the neurological intensive care
unit. The nurse arrives to find the patient sitting in a chair experiencing a tonic-clonic
seizure. What is the best nursing action?
a. Assist the patient to the floor and provide soft head support.
b. Insert a nasogastric tube and connect to continuous wall suction.
c. Open the patient’s mouth and insert a padded tongue blade.
d. Restrain the patient’s extremities until the seizure subsides.
ANS: A
To reduce the risk of further injury, a patient experiencing seizure activity while sitting in a
chair should be assisted to the floor with head adequately supported. Routine insertion of a
nasogastric tube during seizure activity is not indicated unless there is risk for aspiration.
Forceful insertion of a padded tongue blade should not be carried out during tonic-clonic
activity; most likely the patient’s jaws will be clenched shut. Forceful insertion may lead to
further injury. Restraining a patient during seizure activity can be traumatizing and is not
standard of care.

OBJ: Describe the pathophysiology and management for status epilepticus.
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14. The nurse is caring for a mechanically ventilated patient admitted with a traumatic brain
injury. Which arterial blood gas value assessed by the nurse indicates optimal gas exchange
for a patient with this type of injury?
a. pH 7.38; PaCO2 55 mm Hg; HCO3 22 mEq/L; PaO2 85 mm Hg
b. pH 7.38; PaCO2 40 mm Hg; HCO3 24 mEq/L; PaO2 70 mm Hg
c. pH 7.38; PaCO2 35 mm Hg; HCO3 24 mEq/L; PaO2 85 mm Hg
d. pH 7.38; PaCO2 28 mm Hg; HCO3 26 mEq/L; PaO2 65 mm Hg
ANS: C
Optimal gas exchange in a patient with increased intracranial pressure includes adequate
oxygenation and ventilation of carbon dioxide. A pH of 7.38, PaCO2 of 35 mm Hg, and a
PaO2 of 85 mm Hg indicates both. PaCO2 values greater than normal (35 to 45) can lead to
cerebral vasodilatation and further increase cerebral blood volume and ICP. Carbon dioxide
levels less than 35 mm Hg can lead to cerebral vessel vasoconstriction and ischemia.
Adequate oxygenation of cerebral tissues is achieved by maintaining a PaO2 above 80 mm
Hg.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension

REF: p. 360 Nursing Care Plan
15. The nurse is caring for a patient from a rehabilitation center with a preexisting complete
cervical spine injury who is complaining of a severe headache. The nurse assesses a blood
pressure of 180/90 mm Hg, heart rate 60 beats/min, respirations 24 breaths/min, and 50 mL
of urine via indwelling urinary catheter for the past 4 hours. What is the best action by the
nurse?
a. Administer acetaminophen as ordered for the headache.
b. Assess for a kinked urinary catheter and assess for bowel impaction.
c. Encourage the patient to take slow, deep breaths.
d. Notify the provider of the patient’s blood pressure.
ANS: B
Autonomic dysreflexia, characterized by an exaggerated response of the sympathetic
nervous system, can be triggered by a variety of stimuli, including a kinked indwelling
catheter, which would result in bladder distension. Other causes that should be ruled out
before pharmacological intervention include fecal impaction. Treating the patient for a
headache will not resolve symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia. Treatment must focus on
identifying the underlying cause. Slow, deep breaths will not correct the underlying
problem. Assessing for underlying causes of autonomic dysreflexia should precede
contacting the provider.

REF: p. 387 Clinical Alert Box
OBJ: Describe nursing and medical management of patients with a spinal cord injury.
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16. The nurse admits a patient to the emergency department with new onset of slurred speech
and right-sided weakness. What is the priority nursing action?
a. Assess for the presence of a headache.
b. Assess the patient’s general orientation.
c. Determine the patient’s drug allergies.
d. Determine the time of symptom onset.
ANS: D
Early intervention for ischemic stroke is recommended. Thrombolytics must be given within
3 hours of the onset of symptoms. Although assessment of allergies, as well accompanying
symptoms such as a headache and general orientation, are a part of a complete neurological
assessment and should be performed, time of onset of symptoms is critical to the type of
treatment.

OBJ: Discuss the nursing assessment and care of a critically ill patient with
cerebrovascular disease. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Assessment
17. Which patient being cared for in the emergency department should the charge nurse evaluate
first?
a. A patient with a complete spinal cord injury at the C5 dermatome level
b. A patient with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15 on 3-L nasal cannula
c. An alert patient with a subdural bleed who is complaining of a headache
d. An ischemic stroke patient with a blood pressure of 190/100 mm Hg
ANS: A
A patient with a C5 complete spinal injury is at risk for ineffective breathing patterns and
should be assessed immediately for any airway compromise. A GCS score of 15 indicates a
neurologically intact patient. The patient with a subdural bleed is alert and not in danger of
any immediate compromise. The goal for ischemic stroke is to keep the systolic BP less than
220 mm Hg and the diastolic blood pressure less than 120 mm Hg.

18. The nurse admits a patient to the emergency department (ED) with a suspected cervical
spine injury. What is the priority nursing action?
a. Keep the neck in the hyperextended position.
b. Maintain proper head and neck alignment.
c. Prepare for immediate endotracheal intubation.
d. Remove cervical collar upon arrival to the ED.
ANS: B
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Alignment of the head and neck may help prevent spinal cord damage in the event of a
cervical spine injury. Hyperextension of the neck is contraindicated with a cervical spine
injury. Immediate endotracheal intubation is not indicated with a suspected cervical spine
injury unless the patient’s airway is compromised. The use of assist devices to maintain
immobilization of the cervical spine is indicated until injury has been ruled out.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: p. 385 | p. 388

19. The nurse is caring for a patient 3 days following a complete cervical spine injury at the C3
level. The patient is in spinal shock. Following emergent intubation and mechanical
ventilation, what is the priority nursing action?
a. Maintain body temperature.
b. Monitor blood pressure.
c. Pad all bony prominences.
d. Use proper hand washing.
ANS: B
Maintaining perfusion to the spinal cord is critical in the management of spinal cord injury.
Monitoring blood pressure is a priority. Hand washing is important for all patients. There is
no indication the patient has temperature alterations. Padding bony prominences may or
may not be needed.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remember/Knowledge

REF: p. 386 | p. 388 Nursing Care Plan
20. The provider has opted to treat a patient with a complete spinal cord injury with Solumedrol.
The provider orders 30 mg/kg over 15 minutes followed in 45 minutes with an infusion of
5.4 mg/kg/hr for 23 hours. What is the total 24-hour dose for the 70-kg patient?
a. 2478 mg
b. 5000 mg
c. 10,794 mg
d. 12,750 mg
ANS: C
The dosing regimen is initiated with a bolus of 30 mg/kg over 15 minutes, followed in 45
minutes by a continuous intravenous infusion of 5.4 mg/kg/hr for 23 hours. (30 mg  70 kg)
+ (5.4 mg  70 kg)  23 hours = 10,794 mg.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: Table 14-9

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21. The nurse receives a patient from the emergency department following a closed head injury.
After insertion of an ventriculostomy, the nurse assesses the following vital signs: blood
pressure 100/60 mm Hg, heart rate 52 beats/min, respiratory rate 24 breaths/min, oxygen
saturation (SpO2) 97% on supplemental oxygen at 45% via Venturi mask, Glasgow Coma
Scale score of 4, and intracranial pressure (ICP) of 18 mm Hg. Which provider prescription
should the nurse institute first?
a. Mannitol 1 g intravenous
b. Portable chest x-ray
c. Seizure precautions
d. Ancef 1 g intravenous
ANS: A
The patient’s GCS score is 4 along with an ICP of 18 mm Hg. Although a portable chest x-
ray and seizure precautions are appropriate to include in the plan of care, Mannitol 1 g
intravenous is the priority intervention to reduce intracranial pressure. Ancef 1 g intravenous
is appropriate given the indwelling ICP line; however, antibiotic therapy is not the priority in
this scenario.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: Table 14-9

22. The nurse is caring for a patient 5 days following clipping of an anterior communicating
artery aneurysm for a subarachnoid hemorrhage. The nurse assesses the patient to be more
lethargic than the previous hour with a blood pressure of 95/50 mm Hg, heart rate 110
beats/min, respiratory rate 20 breaths/min, oxygen saturation (SpO2) 95% on 3 L/min
oxygen via nasal cannula, and a temperature of 101.5°F. Which provider prescription should
the nurse institute first?
a. Blood cultures (2 specimens) for temperature >101°F
b. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg per rectum
c. 500 mL albumin infusion intravenously
d. Decadron 20 mg intravenous push every 4 hours
ANS: C
Cerebral vasospasm is a life-threatening complication following subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Once an aneurysm has been repaired surgically, blood pressure is allowed to rise to prevent
vasospasm. Volume expansion with 500 mL albumin is the priority intervention for a blood
pressure of 95/50 mm Hg to prevent vasospasm and ensure cerebral perfusion. Blood
cultures, acetaminophen administration, and Decadron are appropriate to include in the plan
of care but are not priorities in this scenario.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: p. 372 | p. 378 | Table 14-9

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23. The nurse, caring for a patient following a subarachnoid hemorrhage, begins a nicardipine
infusion. Baseline blood pressure assessed by the nurse is 170/100 mm Hg. Five minutes
after beginning the infusion at 5 mg/hr, the nurse assesses the patient’s blood pressure to be
160/90 mm Hg. What is the best action by the nurse?
a. Stop the infusion for 5 minutes.
b. Increase the dose by 2.5 mg/hr.
c. Notify the provider of the BP.
d. Begin weaning the infusion.
ANS: B
Medications to control blood pressure are administered to prevent rebleeding before an
aneurysm is secured. Following infusion, the patient’s blood pressure remains dangerously
high, so increasing the dose by 2.5 mg/hr is the best action by the nurse. Stopping the
infusion or weaning the infusion is contraindicated before reaching the desired blood
pressure. Notifying the provider of the blood pressure is not indicated until the upper limits
of the infusion are reached without achieving the desired blood pressure.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: Table 14-9

cerebrovascular disease. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Implementation
24. The nurse is preparing to administer a routine dose of phenytoin. The provider orders
phenytoin 500 mg intravenous every 6 hours. What is the best action by the nurse?
a. Administer over 2 minutes.
b. Administer with 0.9% normal saline intravenous.
c. Contact the provider.
d. Assess cardiac rhythm.
ANS: C
The ordered dose is an inappropriate maintenance dose. The nurse should contact the
provider. Administering the dose over 2 minutes, administering with normal saline, and
assessing the cardiac rhythm for bradycardia are normal administration guidelines for
normal dose parameters.

25. The nurse is caring for a patient admitted to the emergency department in status epilepticus.
Vital signs assessed by the nurse include blood pressure 160/100 mm Hg, heart rate 145
beats/min, respiratory rate 36 breaths/min, oxygen saturation (SpO2) 96% on 100%
supplemental oxygen by non-rebreather mask. After establishing an intravenous (IV) line,
which prescription by the provider should the nurse implement first?
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a. Obtain stat serum electrolytes.
b. Administer lorazepam.
c. Obtain stat portable chest x-ray.
d. Administer phenytoin.
ANS: B
The nurse should administer lorazepam as ordered; lorazepam is the first-line medication for
the treatment of status epilepticus. Phenytoin is administered only when lorazepam fails to
stop seizure activity or if intermittent seizures persist for longer than 20 minutes. Serum
electrolytes and chest x-rays are appropriate orders but not the priority in this scenario.

cerebrovascular disease. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Planning
26. The provider prescribes fosphenytoin, 1.5 g intravenous (IV) loading dose, for a 75-kg
patient in status epilepticus. What is the most important action by the nurse?
a. Contact the admitting physician.
b. Administer the drug over 10 minutes.
c. Mix medication with 0.9% normal saline.
d. Administer via central line.
ANS: B
The nurse can administer the medication over 10 minutes as prescribed (100 to 150 mg
phenytoin equivalent [PE] over 1 full minute). The drug dose prescribed is appropriate for
the patient’s weight. Fosphenytoin does not have to be administered with normal saline or
via a central line.

27. The nurse is to administer 100 mg phenytoin intravenous (IV). Vital signs assessed by the
nurse include blood pressure 90/60 mm Hg, heart rate 52 beats/min, respiratory rate 18
breaths/min, and oxygen saturation (SpO2) 99% on supplemental oxygen at 3 L/min by
cannula. To prevent complications, what is the best action by the nurse?
a. Administer over 2 minutes.
b. Administer over 20 to 30 minutes.
c. Mix medication with 0.9% normal saline.
d. Administer via central line.
ANS: B
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In the presence of hypotension and bradycardia, administering the medication over 2
minutes is too fast. Phenytoin should be administered over 20 to 30 minutes. Mixing
medication with 0.9% normal saline prevents precipitation of the medication but will not
prevent complications related to this scenario. Administering the medications via central line
will not prevent complications related to this scenario.

28. The nurse is preparing to administer 100 mg of phenytoin to a patient in status epilepticus.
To prevent patient complications, what is the best action by the nurse?
a. Ensure patency of intravenous (IV) line.
b. Mix drug with 0.9% normal saline.
c. Evaluate serum K+ level.
d. Obtain an IV infusion pump.
ANS: A
Ensuring a patent IV site prevents complications associated with infiltration of the
medication (soft tissue necrosis). Mixing the drug with normal saline prevents
crystallization of the medication and would be noticed prior to administration. Evaluating
the serum K+ is not required prior to administration. The dose of phenytoin (Dilantin)
ordered can be safely administered IV push over 2 minutes and does not require an infusion
pump.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: Table 14-9

29. The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with a subarachnoid hemorrhage following
surgical repair of the aneurysm. Assessment by the nurse notes blood pressure 90/60 mm
Hg, heart rate 115 beats/min, respiratory rate 28 breaths/min, oxygen saturation (SpO2) 99%
on supplemental oxygen at 3L/min by cannula, a Glasgow Coma Score of 4, and a central
venous pressure (CVP) of 2 mm Hg. After reviewing the provider prescriptions, which order
is of the highest priority?
a. Lasix 20 mg intravenous push as needed
b. 500 mL albumin intravenous infusion
c. Decadron 10 mg intravenous push
d. Dilantin 50 mg intravenous push
ANS: B
To ensure adequate cerebral perfusion, for a CVP of 2 mm Hg, blood pressure of 90/60 mm
Hg, and heart rate of 115 beats/min, an infusion of 500 mL of albumin is most appropriate.
Lasix is contraindicated in low volume states. Although Decadron and Dilantin are
appropriate medications, in this scenario, they are not the priority medications.
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30. After receiving the handoff report from the day shift charge nurse, which patient should the
evening charge nurse assess first?
a. A patient with meningitis complaining of photophobia
b. A mechanically ventilated patient with a GCS of 6
c. A patient with bacterial meningitis on droplet precautions
d. A patient with an intracranial pressure ICP of 20 mm Hg and an oral temperature
of 104°F
ANS: D
The charge nurse should assess the patient with an ICP of 20 mm Hg and a temperature of
104°F as this is an abnormal finding and should be investigated further. A patient with a
GCS of 6 being mechanically ventilated has a secure airway and there is no indication of
distress. Photophobia is an expected finding with meningitis, and droplet precautions are
appropriate for a patient with bacterial meningitis.

31. The nurse has just received a patient from the emergency department with an admitting
diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. To prevent the spread of nosocomial infections to other
patients, what is the best action by the nurse?
a. Implement droplet precautions upon admission.
b. Wash hands thoroughly before leaving the room.
c. Scrub the hub of all central line ports before use.
d. Dispose of all bloody dressings in biohazard bags.
ANS: A
Droplet precautions are maintained for a patient with bacterial meningitis until 24 hours
after the initiation of antibiotic therapy to reduce the potential for spread of the infection.
Washing hands and scrubbing the hub of injection ports are practices that help reduce the
risk of infection, but added precautions are necessary for preventing the spread of bacterial
meningitis. Disposing of all bloody dressings in biohazard bags is a standard universal
precaution and is not specific to bacterial meningitis.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: p. 381

MSC: NCLEX Client Needs Category: Safe and Effective Care Environment
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32. The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with bacterial meningitis. Vital signs
assessed by the nurse include blood pressure 110/70 mm Hg, heart rate 110 beats/min,
respiratory rate 30 breaths/min, oxygen saturation (SpO2) 95% on supplemental oxygen at 3
L/min, and a temperature 103.5°F. What is the priority nursing action?
a. Elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees.
b. Keep lights dim at all times.
c. Implement seizure precautions.
d. Maintain bed rest at all times.
ANS: C
Bacterial meningitis is an infection of the pia and arachnoid layers of the meninges and the
cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the subarachnoid space. As such, the patient can experience
symptoms associated with cerebral irritation, such as photophobia and seizures. In addition,
the patient is at increased risk for seizures because of a high temperature. The priority
nursing action is to implement seizure precautions in an attempt to prevent injury. Elevating
the head of the bead, keeping the lights dim, and maintaining bed rest are all appropriate
nursing interventions but are not the priorities in this scenario.

MSC: NCLEX Client Needs Category: Safe and Effective Care Environment
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
1. The nurse is preparing to monitor intracranial pressure (ICP) with a fluid-filled monitoring
system. The nurse understands which principles and/or components to be essential when
implementing ICP monitoring? (Select all that apply.)
a. Use of a heparin flush solution
b. Manually flushing the device “prn”
c. Recording ICP as a “mean” value
d. Use of a pressurized flush system
e. Zero referencing the transducer system
ANS: C, E
Neither heparin nor pressure bags nor pressurized flush systems are used for ICP monitoring
setups. ICP is recorded as a mean value with the transducer system zero referenced at the
level of the foramen of Monro. Manually flushing the device may result in an increase in
ICP.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Remember/Knowledge REF: p. 357

2. In an unconscious patient, eye movements are tested by the oculocephalic reflex. Which
statements regarding the testing of this reflex are true? (Select all that apply.)
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a. Doll’s eyes absent indicate a disruption in normal brainstem processing.
b. Doll’s eyes present indicate brainstem activity.
c. Eye movement in the opposite direction as the head when turned indicates an intact
reflex.
d. Eye movement in the same direction as the head when turned indicates an intact
reflex.
e. Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is a contraindication to the assessment of this
reflex.
f. Presence of cervical injuries is a contraindication to the assessment of this reflex.
ANS: A, B, C, E, F
In unconscious patients with stable cervical spine, assess oculocephalic reflex (doll’s eye):
turn the patient’s head quickly from side to side while holding the eyes open. Note
movement of eyes. The doll’s eye reflex is present if the eyes move bilaterally in the
opposite direction of the head movement.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: Table 14-10

3. The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with new onset of slurred speech, facial droop, and
left-sided weakness 8 hours ago. Diagnostic computed tomography scan rules out the
presence of an intracranial bleed. Which actions are most important to include in the
patient’s plan of care? (Select all that apply.)
a. Make frequent neurological assessments.
b. Maintain CO2 level at 50 mm Hg.
c. Maintain MAP less than 130 mm Hg.
d. Prepare for thrombolytic administration.
e. Restrain affected limb to prevent injury.
ANS: A, C
The goal for ischemic stroke is to keep the systolic blood pressure less than 220 mm Hg and
the diastolic blood pressure less than 120 mm Hg. In hemorrhagic stroke, the goal is a mean
arterial pressure less than 130 mm Hg. Neurological assessments are compared with the
baseline assessments performed in the ED. The elapsed time of 8 hours since onset of
symptoms prohibits thrombolytic therapy. The CO2 should be maintained within normal
limits; this value is elevated. The elapsed time of 8 hours since onset of symptoms prohibits
thrombolytic therapy. Restraints should be avoided.
DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: Table 14-2 | Table 14-10

cerebrovascular disease. TOP: Nursing Process Step: Intervention
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Chapter 14: Nervous System Alterations

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DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: p. 350

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: p. 354

DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: p. 354

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: p. 361

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: p. 368

DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: p. 369

DIF: Cognitive Level: Remember/Knowledge REF: p. 344

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application

DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: p. 368

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: p. 380

DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: p. 374

DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: p. 382

DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: p. 385 | p. 388

DIF: Cognitive Level: Remember/Knowledge

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: Table 14-9

DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: Table 14-9

DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: p. 372 | p. 378 | Table 14-9

DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: Table 14-9

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: Table 14-9

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: Table 14-9

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: Table 14-9

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: Table 14-9

DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: Table 14-9

DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: p. 381

DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: p. 381

DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply/Application REF: p. 381

DIF: Cognitive Level: Remember/Knowledge REF: p. 357

DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand/Comprehension REF: Table 14-10

DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze/Analysis REF: Table 14-2 | Table 14-10

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