Stroke Basics
What diagnostic test is first used to distinguish between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke?
What is a non-contrast CT scan?
Within how many hours must tPA (alteplase) be administered for eligible ischemic stroke patients?
Within 3–4.5 hours of symptom onset.
What is a normal intracranial pressure range?
What is 5–15 mmHg.
What is the first priority during an active seizure?
What is maintaining patient safety and airway?
A nurse initiates seizure precautions on a patient, what equipment and processes are included in this process?
What is padded bed rails, oxygen equipment at the bedside, and suction set-up?
What type of stroke is caused by a blood clot blocking a cerebral artery?
What is an ischemic stroke?
What is the priority nursing assessment before giving tPA?
What is checking for active bleeding including assessment for hemorrhagic stroke?
What is the earliest sign of increased ICP?
What is change in level of consciousness?
Which type of seizure involves both hemispheres and loss of consciousness?
What is a generalized tonic-clonic seizure?
What should never be done during a seizure?
What is do not place objects in the mouth?
Which type of stroke involves bleeding into the brain tissue?
What is a hemorrhagic stroke?
Which side of the body is affected by a left-sided brain stroke?
The right side of the body.
What triad of symptoms indicates late-stage increased ICP (Cushing’s Triad)
What are bradycardia, widened pulse pressure, and irregular respirations?
What is the postictal phase?
The period after a seizure when the patient is confused, drowsy, or fatigued.
Why should the head of the bed be elevated 30 degrees in increased ICP patients?
What is to promote venous drainage and reduce pressure.
What is the most common risk factor for stroke?
What is uncontrolled hypertension?
Patients with dysphagia after a stroke are at high risk for what complication?
What is aspiration pneumonia?
Which position should be avoided in patients with increased ICP?
What is Trendelenburg position?
Which emergency medication is given IV for status epilepticus?
What is lorazepam (Ativan) or diazepam (Valium)?
What nursing intervention helps prevent increased ICP during care activities?
What is avoid excessive suctioning, straining, or stimulation?
What event causing transient neurological deficits can occur multiple times prior (even years before) warning the risk of an ischemic stroke?
What is a transient ischemic attack (TIA)?
Name two common long-term complications after stroke.
What are aphasia, hemiplegia, hemianopsia, depression, or cognitive impairment?
Why should hypotonic IV fluids be avoided in patients with increased ICP?
What is they can increase cerebral edema?
What patient teaching should be given about anticonvulsant medications?
What is take consistently, don’t stop abruptly, monitor levels, and watch for side effects?
After a stroke, why is a swallow screening test important before oral intake?
What is to prevent aspiration and pneumonia?