Chapter 66 Quiz - Neurologic Dysfunction

Using the Glasgow Coma Scale, the nurse gives a patient who is brain dead a score of _________.

3

_______________ is an abnormal episode of motor, sensory, autonomic, or psychic activity resulting from a sudden, abnormal, uncontrolled electrical discharge from cerebral neurons.

A seizure

_______________ refers to the brain's ability to change the diameter of blood vessels to maintain cerebral blood flow.

Autoregulation

_____________ refers to abnormal flexion of the upper extremities and extension of the lower extremities as neurologic function deteriorates and the patient becomes comatose.

Decortication

The cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) must be maintained at 50 mm Hg to ensure adequate blood flow to the brain. T or F?

False - 70 to 80 mm/Hg

The most frequently administered hyperosmotic agent used to reduce cerebral edema before intracranial surgery is _____________.

Mannitol

During assessment of an unconscious patient, the nurse notes "fixed, dilated pupils" and understands that brain injury is at the level of the midbrain. T or F?

True

Nursing intervention when caring for a patient with ICP is to maintain the head of the bed at 30 degrees and maintain alignment of the head. T or F?

True

The earliest sign of increasing ICP is a change in LOC. T or F?

True

The first treatment priority for a patient with an altered level of consciousness is to obtain and maintain a patent airway. T or F?

True