Question

A patient diagnosed with a hemorrhagic stroke reports of a sudden, severe headache (9 out of 10 pain). Prioritize the next actions:

1. Administer acetaminophen or apply a cold pack to the patient's head.
2. Perform a neuro assessment.
3. Notify the physician.
4. Notify the charge nurse.

a) 1, 3, 2, 4

b) 4, 3, 2, 1

c) 4, 2, 3, 1

d) 2, 3, 1, 4

Answer 1

The priority for a patient with a hemorrhagic stroke and a severe headache is to first perform a neuro assessment, then notify the physician, followed by notifying the charge nurse, and lastly, considering the administration of acetaminophen or applying a cold pack.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the case of a patient diagnosed with a hemorrhagic stroke who reports a sudden, severe headache, prioritizing medical actions is crucial for their survival and recovery. The correct order of actions must be based on immediate medical needs and the potential for rapid deterioration. The priority is to perform a neuro assessment (2) to determine the extent of neurological damage, following which the physician should be notified (3) immediately due to the urgency and potential for life-threatening complications. While notifying the charge nurse (4) is important for broader awareness and departmental readiness, it is secondary to direct medical intervention and physician communication. Administering acetaminophen or applying a cold pack to the patient's head (1) is the least critical initial action and should be done only after the assessment and notification steps have been completed, and only if deemed appropriate by the medical staff, as analgesic administration without full assessment could mask symptoms and complicate diagnosis.