The nurse will assess a 67-year-old patient who is experiencing a ...

[panfilo]

The nurse will assess a 67-year-old patient who is experiencing a cluster headache for
 
  a. nuchal rigidity.
  b. unilateral ptosis.
  c. projectile vomiting.
  d. throbbing, bilateral facial pain.

Question 2

The nurse determines that teaching about management of migraine headaches has been effective when the patient says which of the following?
 
  a. I can take the (Topamax) as soon as a headache starts.
  b. A glass of wine might help me relax and prevent a headache.
  c. I will lie down someplace dark and quiet when the headaches begin.
  d. I should avoid taking aspirin and sumatriptan (Imitrex) at the same time.

[rnehls]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Unilateral eye edema, tearing, and ptosis are characteristic of cluster headaches. Nuchal rigidity suggests meningeal irritation, such as occurs with meningitis. Although nausea and vomiting may occur with migraine headaches, projectile vomiting is more consistent with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Unilateral sharp, stabbing pain, rather than throbbing pain, is characteristic of cluster headaches.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
It is recommended that the patient with a migraine rest in a dark, quiet area. Topiramate (Topamax) is used to prevent migraines and must be taken for several months to determine effectiveness. Aspirin or other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medications can be taken with the triptans. Alcohol may precipitate migraine headaches.

[panfilo]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[Chelseyj.hasty]

TYSM