A patient with a brain tumor is scheduled for a chest x-ray and ...

[anjilletteb]

A patient with a brain tumor is scheduled for a chest x-ray and says I don't understand why I'm having a chest x-ray when my problem is in my head What is the nurse's most appropriate response?
 
  1. The physician may be trying to determine if this is a metastatic brain tumor, as the most common source of these tumors is cancer of the lung.
  2. This is just a precautionary measure. The physician often prescribes chest x-rays.
  3. Don't get so upset about this It's routine. The doctor will talk to you later.
  4. The escort is here to take you to radiology, so we'll discuss this when you return.

Question 2

A patient with increased intracranial pressure is prescribed mannitol (Osmitrol). What should the nurse do when providing this medication?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. Use an in-line filter for IV administration.
  2. Do not administer the medication if crystals are noted in the solution.
  3. Monitor central venous pressure (CVP) and pulmonary artery pressures (PAP) before and every hour throughout administration.
  4. Assess patient for signs of fluid retention.
  5. Discontinue the drug immediately if the patient complains of a headache.

[janeli]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
The most common source of metastatic brain tumors is cancer of the lung. Stating that the x-ray is just a precautionary measure is correct but not the most appropriate response. The nurse should not assume the patient is upset and/or defer addressing the patient's concern.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3
Mannitol (Osmitrol) should be administered with an in-line filter and the solution should be checked for presence of crystals. If observed, do not administer the solution. Monitoring of CVP and PAP, vital signs, and urinary output should be done before and hourly during administration. The patient should be assessed for signs of dehydration since this medication is a diuretic. Do not discontinue the drug abruptly as rebound migraine headaches may occur.

[anjilletteb]

Excellent

[ricroger]

TYSM