Question

1) The nurse is caring for a client who reports sudden right sided numbness and weakness of the arm and leg. The nurse also observes a distinct right sided facial droop. After reporting the findings to the healthcare provider. The nurse receives several prescriptions for the client, including a STAT computerized tomography scan of the head. The nurse should immediately take which action.​

Answer 1

The nurse should immediately arrange for the patient to undergo the prescribed STAT CT scan of the head to diagnose the cause of the neurological symptoms, which is critical for timely stroke management.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is dealing with a patient who shows signs of a neurological event, likely a stroke. Given the sudden onset of right-sided numbness, weakness, and facial droop, the nurse must prioritize the STAT computerized tomography (CT) scan of the head. This is essential for diagnosing and determining the exact cause of the neurological symptoms, such as whether it's due to a hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke. The rapid assessment and commencement of treatment, such as the administration of aspirin mentioned in the case to reduce blood clot formation, are critical in managing the condition and minimizing long-term damage.

Other evaluations in the emergency department—such as checking for sensory deficits by touch, observing muscle strength against resistance, and asking the patient to follow visual cues—provide additional data on the patient's neurological status before the CT scan. However, because time is critical in stroke management and recovery, the nurse should first facilitate the immediate performance of the CT scan as prescribed by the healthcare provider.