CEN 100 Final Exam Review Complete Solutions
What is the first priority when caring for a patient with a head injury and signs of increased intracranial
pressure (ICP)?
The first priority is to maintain airway patency and ensure adequate oxygenation, followed by elevating
the head of the bed to 30 degrees to promote venous drainage and reduce ICP. ✔️✔️
What should you do if a patient presents with a severe allergic reaction after exposure to a medication?
Administer intramuscular epinephrine immediately, monitor airway and breathing, and provide
supplemental oxygen if necessary. Be prepared to administer additional doses of epinephrine if
symptoms persist. ✔️✔️
How should a nurse assess a patient suspected of having a pulmonary embolism?
Key assessments include checking for signs of respiratory distress, such as sudden shortness of breath,
tachypnea, chest pain, and hypoxia, followed by confirmation through diagnostic imaging like a CT
pulmonary angiogram. ✔️✔️
What is the first intervention for a patient with suspected spinal cord injury?
The first intervention is to stabilize the spine and immobilize the patient to prevent further injury,
followed by maintaining the airway and monitoring neurological status. ✔️✔️
How do you manage a patient with severe hypothermia?
The management involves rewarming the patient gradually with blankets, warm fluids, and possibly
heated oxygen, while monitoring for signs of rewarming shock and maintaining circulation and
respiratory support. ✔️✔️
,What is the priority when caring for a patient who has suffered a blunt force trauma to the chest?
The priority is to assess for signs of tension pneumothorax or cardiac tamponade and initiate
appropriate interventions like oxygen therapy, needle decompression, or pericardiocentesis, depending
on the diagnosis. ✔️✔️
What are the signs of a tension pneumothorax?
Signs include severe respiratory distress, tracheal deviation away from the affected side, absent breath
sounds on one side, and hypotension, often associated with a rapid decline in cardiovascular status.
✔️✔️
What is the nursing priority in managing a patient who has been in a motor vehicle accident and
presents with suspected internal bleeding?
The priority is to monitor for signs of shock, stabilize the patient, administer IV fluids to support
circulation, and prepare for diagnostic imaging or surgical intervention as needed. ✔️✔️
How do you treat a patient with a suspected stroke who presents with a significant decrease in
consciousness?
The treatment includes immediate airway management, administering oxygen, and rapid neuroimaging
(CT or MRI) to determine the type of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) and initiate appropriate
interventions. ✔️✔️
What should be done for a patient experiencing an opioid overdose with respiratory depression?
Administer naloxone (Narcan) immediately to reverse the effects of the opioid, support ventilation if
needed, and monitor the patient closely for potential recurrence of symptoms. ✔️✔️
What is the first intervention for a patient experiencing an asthma exacerbation?
, Administer a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) like albuterol to relieve bronchospasm, and provide
supplemental oxygen to support oxygenation if needed. Monitor the response to treatment and
escalate care if necessary. ✔️✔️
How do you manage a patient presenting with a head injury and signs of a concussion?
Management includes monitoring for changes in neurological status, ensuring the patient is awake and
alert, and observing for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or confusion. The patient may need to be kept
awake for monitoring or undergo further imaging if indicated. ✔️✔️
What should be done for a patient with suspected acute gastroenteritis?
The priority is to maintain hydration through oral rehydration or IV fluids, assess electrolyte imbalances,
and manage symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea while preventing dehydration. ✔️✔️
What is the most common cause of shock in a trauma patient?
The most common cause is hypovolemic shock, typically resulting from significant blood loss due to
trauma. Management includes controlling bleeding, providing IV fluids, and ensuring airway and
respiratory support. ✔️✔️
What is the first priority when managing a patient with a possible bowel obstruction?
The first priority is to assess the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs), provide IV fluids to
correct dehydration, and prepare the patient for diagnostic imaging or surgical consultation if necessary.
✔️✔️
How should a nurse manage a patient with an open fracture?