1. Right Answer: A
Explanation: (A) Priapism in the trauma client is due to the neurological dysfunction seen in spinal cord injury. Priapism is an abnormal erection of the penis; it may be accompanied by pain and tenderness. This may disappear as spinal cord edema is relieved. (B) Priapism is not associated with death. (C) Urinary retention, rather than incontinence, may occur. (D) Reproductive dysfunction may be a secondary problem.
2. Right Answer: A
Explanation: (A) Neurogenic shock is caused by injury to the cervical region, which leads to loss of sympathetic control. This loss leads to vasodilation of the vascular beds, bradycardia resulting from the lack of sympathetic balance to parasympathetic stimuli from the vagus nerve, and the loss of the ability to sweat below the level of injury. In neurogenic shock, the client is hypotensive but bradycardiac with warm, dry skin. (B) In hypovolemic shock, the client ishypotensive and tachycardiac with cool skin. (C) In hypovolemic shock, the capillary refill would be>5 seconds. (D) In neurogenic shock, there is no capillary delay, the vascular beds are dilated, and peripheral flow is good.
3. Right Answer: D
Explanation: (A) An increase in core body temperature increases metabolism and results in an increase in ICP. (B) Decreased serum osmolality indicates a fluid overload and may result in an increase in ICP. (C) Hypo-osmolar fluids are generally voided in the neurologically compromised. Using IV fluids such as D5W results in the dextrose being metabolized, releasing free water that is absorbed by the brain cells, leading to cerebral edema. (D) Hypercapnia and hypoventilation, which cause retention of CO2 and lead to respiratory acidosis, both increase ICP. CO2 is the most potent vasodilator known.
4. Right Answer: D
Explanation: (A) Basilar skull fracture may cause dural lacerations, which result in CSF leaking from the ears or nose. Insertion of a tube could lead to CSF going into the brain tissue or sinuses. (B) Tamponading flow could worsen the problem and increase ICP. (C) Suction could increase brain damage and dislocate tissue. (D) Testing the fluid from the nares would determine the presence of CSF. Elevation of the head, notification of the medical staff, and prophylactic antibiotics are appropriate therapy.
5. Right Answer: C
Explanation: (A) Tachypnea is not a symptom. (B) Circumoral pallor is not a symptom. (C) Autonomic dysreflexia is an uninhibited and exaggerated reflex of the autonomic nervous system to stimulation, which results in vasoconstriction and elevated blood pressure. (D) Pallor and itching are not symptoms.
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