Author Question: A client with a head injury is demonstrating signs of increased intracranial pressure (IICP). Which ... (Read 125 times)

gbarreiro · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A client with a head injury is demonstrating signs of increased intracranial pressure (IICP). Which classifications of medications should the nurse prepare to administer to this client?

Select all that apply.
A) Loop diuretics
B) Antibiotics
C) Anticonvulsants
D) Histamine H2 antagonists
E) Antipyretics

Question 2

The nurse instructs an older adult client with arthritis on the side effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) therapy.

Which client statement would indicate that teaching had been effective?
A) I will report any abnormal bruising.
B) Caffeine will decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
C) I cannot take other medications.
D) If I have a change in my mood I will call the prescriber.

princessflame2016 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: A, C, D, E

Medications play an important role in the management of IICP. Loop diuretics are commonly used to reduce ICP. Antipyretics such as acetaminophen are used alone or in combination with a hypothermia blanket to treat hyperthermia. Anticonvulsants are often required to manage seizure activity associated with brain injury and IICP. Gastrointestinal prophylaxis with intravenous histamine H2 antagonists are often used because clients with IICP are at increased risk for developing stress gastritis and ulcers. Antibiotics are not routinely prescribed as treatment for IICP.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: A

Older adult clients are at risk for increased bleeding with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) therapy. The client should be taught to report any abnormal bruising, which may indicate bleeding. Older adult clients often take several medications, and refraining from taking them with NSAIDs is an unrealistic outcome. Mood changes are not a side effect of NSAID therapy. There is no reason for avoiding use of caffeine while using an NSAID.