Patient Snapshot
What symptoms did the patient experiene that indicated a stroke?
L sideded numbness, weakness, drooping, slurred speech, headache
What is a hemorrhage stroke?
What imaging tests can confirm the Dx?
CT of Head
What medicatioin can be given for severe pain?
Morphine
What is the best position to keep the patient’s HOB to reduce intracranial pressure?
30 degrees because it helps with venous drainage; reduces intracranial pressure.
Which abnormal vital signs could indicate a potential stroke?
Blood Pressure of 200 systolic !
Where in the brain may the bleeding be locaated?
Right basal ganglia
What might a CT Scan show?
2-3 mL right basal ganglia hemorrhage w/ midline shift (indicates signifacnt bleeding deep inside the R side of the brain that's causing swelling; pressure strong enough to push parts of the brian out of their normal position)
Name 2 antihypertensive meds used (Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker; CCB)
Losartan; Amlodpine (CCB)
What nursing intervention helps prevent ICP increase?
Avoid straining, coughing, or bending; maintain calm environment
What past medical history can indicate a stroke?
HTN
Name the differenet types of strokes?
Ischmeic (blood clot blocks an artery in brain, cutting off blood flow to brain tissue), Hemorrhagic, and Transient Ischemic (temp blockage of blood flow to the braiin that's ususally resolved within a few mins)
Do labs have to be abnormal to get dx?
No, becuase only BP was high
What class is Losartan, and how does it work?
Angiotensin II receptor blocker; blocks vasoconstriction to lower BP
What fall prevention measure should be implemented?
Keep call light within reach, assist with ambulation, use gait belt
What signs/ symptoms may alert a family member that the patients having a stroke?
FAST: face drooping arm weakness, speech difficult, time to call 911
Blood collects in the brain, pressing on tissue and causing swelling
What is normal Na range, and why is it important in neuro patients?
135-145, helps prevent cerberal edema
What is the nursing consideration when giving Morphine to a neuro patient?
Monitor RR and neuro status; can cause sedation and mask neuro changes (RR BELOW 8: HOLD MED!)
What lifestyle changes can the patient plan to make after discharge?
Be consistent with meds, manage stress, eat low sodium, reduce work hours
HTN meds
What complications can occur if intracranial pressure becomes too high?
Brain herniation
What vital trends can be concerning during hospitalization?
Elevated BP in the 150s systolic
Why is keeping the head of the bed at 30° important?
Promotes venous drainage, reduces ICP, and prevents rebleeding
Name 3 key education points to prevent another stroke
Take BP meds daily, monitor BP at home, manage stress and diet, recognize stroke signs early