Author Question: A nurse assesses a client who is recovering from the implantation of a vagal nerve stimulation ... (Read 2558 times)

jazziefee · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A nurse assesses a client who is recovering from the implantation of a vagal nerve stimulation device. For which clinical manifestations should the nurse assess as common complications of this procedure? (Select all that apply.)

a. Bleeding
b. Infection
c. Hoarseness
d. Dysphagia
e. Seizures

Question 2

A nurse is caring for a client with meningitis. Which laboratory values should the nurse monitor to identify potential complications of this disorder? (Select all that apply.)

a. Sodium level
b. Liver enzymes
c. Clotting factors
d. Cardiac enzymes
e. Creatinine level

Bsand8 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C, D
Complications of surgery to implant a vagal nerve stimulation device include hoarseness (most common), dyspnea, neck pain, and dysphagia. The device is tunneled under the skin with an electrode connected to the vagus nerve to control simple or complex partial seizures. Bleeding is not a common complication of this procedure, and infection would not occur during the recovery period.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, C
Inflammation associated with meningitis can stimulate the hypothalamus and result in excessive production of antidiuretic hormone. The nurse should monitor sodium levels for early identification of syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone. A systemic inflammatory response (SIR) can also occur with meningitis. A SIR can result in a coagulopathy that leads to disseminated intravascular coagulation. The nurse should monitor clotting factors to identify this complication. The other laboratory values are not specific to complications of meningitis.