Stroke Basics
The most important initial test for a patient with suspected stroke?
What is CT Scan of the head
A classic sign of meningitis involving neck movement.
What is Nuchal rigidity
Position a patient be placed in during a seizure?
What is a side lying position
A headache with an associated organic cause
What is a secondary headache
Priority when a patient presents with altered LOC?
What is airway
A stroke affecting the right hemisphere will cause weakness on which side of the body?
What is the left side of the brain
Precautions needed for suspected bacterial meningitis?
What is droplet precautions
the first-line IV drug for status epilepticus?
What is IV Lorazepam
A unilateral headache with nasal congestion and tearing of the eye
What is cluster headaches
A patient with suspected meningitis has a new seizure. What is the priority nursing action?
A. Prepare to administer anticonvulsants as ordered
B. Document the time and duration
C. Apply seizure precautions
D. Notify the provider immediately
What is A?
Rationale: Seizures are a common complication of meningitis; treatment with anticonvulsants is essential to stop seizure activity.
Number of hours from symptom onset can tPA be given for eligible ischemic strokes?
What is 3–4.5 hours?
Cloudy CSF, high protein, and low glucose indicate which type of meningitis
What is bacterial meningitis
Brief, shock-like muscle jerks are what type of seizure?
What is myoclonic seizures and Tonic clonic seizures
Which non-pharmacological interventions may help reduce migraine frequency? (Select all that apply)
A. Keeping a headache diary
B. Avoiding identified food triggers
C. Regular sleep schedule
D. Hyperventilation exercises
E. Stress management techniques
Correct Answers: A, B, C, E
Rationale: Identifying triggers, avoiding them, and maintaining consistent routines help prevent migraines. Hyperventilation may worsen symptoms.
Priority nursing diagnosis for a patient in acute stroke phase?
What is Risk for Aspiration
One sign of a left-sided stroke.
What is Aphasia, right-sided weakness, slow cautious behavior
Positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs are associated with which condition?
Explain characteristics of each signWhat is meningitis
Seizure type that involves no aura or warning, patients usually remain seated or standing
What is Absence?
Numbness and partial or total paralysis of the facial muscles.
How do we diagnose this condition?
What is Bell Palsy?
Thorough History and assessment
The nurse is teaching a patient with epilepsy about phenytoin (Dilantin) therapy. Which statements indicate correct understanding? (Select all that apply)
A. “I will get my blood levels checked regularly to make sure the medication is effective.”
B. “I should practice good oral hygiene and see my dentist often.”
C. “If I miss a dose, I should double up on the next dose.”
D. “I should not stop taking this medication suddenly.”
E. “This medication may decrease the effectiveness of my birth control pills.”
F. “I can safely drink alcohol with this medication as long as it’s in moderation.”
Correct Answers: A, B, D, E
Rationales:
A: Correct — phenytoin requires serum monitoring (therapeutic range 10–20 mcg/mL).
B: Correct — gingival hyperplasia is a common side effect; oral care is essential.
C: WRONG — missed doses should be taken ASAP, but never doubled.
D: Correct — sudden withdrawal may trigger seizures/status epilepticus.
E: Correct — phenytoin reduces effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
F: WRONG — alcohol increases CNS depression and seizure risk.
“FAST” stand for what in stroke recognition?
What is Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911?
This is a complication of meningitis causes low sodium and fluid retention?
What is SIADH
5 generalized seizures and their characteristics
What is
3 different types of headaches with characteristics.
What is migraines with aura, migraine w/o aura, cluster headaches
CH: freq during spring and fall, brief
The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a patient recovering from a stroke. Which statements by the patient indicate correct understanding? (Select all that apply)
A. “I will take my blood pressure medication every day, even if I feel fine.”
B. “I should follow a low-sodium, heart-healthy diet.”
C. “If I notice sudden weakness or difficulty speaking, I should wait to see if it goes away.”
D. “I will continue physical and occupational therapy as prescribed.”
E. “I will learn to use safety devices at home, like grab bars and non-slip mats.”
F. “I should avoid all activity to prevent another stroke.”
G. “I need to monitor my blood sugar regularly if I have diabetes.”
Correct Answers: A, B, D, E, G
Rationales:
A: Hypertension is a major risk factor; strict adherence to meds is essential.
B: Stroke prevention includes diet changes such as DASH or heart-healthy diet.
C: WRONG — Any new stroke symptoms = emergency; call 911 immediately.
D: Rehab is critical for recovery and independence.
E: Safety modifications help reduce fall and injury risk after stroke.
F: WRONG — Activity should be gradually increased with therapy guidance.
G: Diabetes management reduces vascular complications and stroke risk.