Answer to Question 1
Answer: C
High-dose steroid protocol using methylprednisolone must be implemented within 8 hours of the injury to improve neurologic recovery. Clinical research indicates that the use of this adrenocorticosteroi d is effective in preventing secondary spinal cord damage from edema and ischemia. This medication may cause hyperglycemia if the client also has a diagnosis of diabetes. This medication is not provided to improve respirations or improve the level of consciousness.
Answer to Question 2
Answer: B
An ideal outcome for the client with bowel and bladder dysfunction as a result of a spinal cord injury would be for the client to attain appropriate bowel and bladder elimination habits. If the client's ability to perform self-urinary catheterization is improving, the interventions can be considered successful. The client with an indwelling urinary catheter receiving stool softeners every morning is not progressing toward bowel and bladder elimination habits. The client who had two episodes of impacted stool over the last week is not progressing in bowel elimination habits. The client who is limiting fluids to reduce the need to void is possibly hindering his health in order to avoid having to perform self-urinary catheterization.
B, The nurse teaches the postoperative client to use an incentive spirometer to expand the lungs.
The nurse uses a noninvasive bladder ultrasound to measure the client’s bladder volume.
Comparison of Research Studies Exploring Nurse Caring Behaviors
Facility Emergency Response Plans. Courtesy of Chris Weber, Dr. Hazmat, Inc.
Nurse measuring the recumbent height of a toddler
Client’s view with visual field loss