Question

When discharging a client from the emergency department after a head trauma, the nurse teaches the guardian to observe for a lucid interval. Which statement by the nurse is most accurate?

a)An intervalWhen the client's speech is garbled
b)An intervalWhen the client is alert but can't recall recent events
c)An intervalWhen the client is oriented but then becomes somnolent
d)An intervalWhen the client has a "warning" symptom, such as an odor or visual disturbance

Answer 1

A lucid interval is when a client appears alert and oriented after a head trauma but then becomes somnolent, indicating the need for immediate medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

When discharging a client from the emergency department after a head trauma, the nurse teaches the guardian to observe for a lucid interval, which is most accurately described as an interval when the client is oriented but then becomes somnolent. This period is characterized by a temporary improvement in the client's condition where they appear alert and aware of their surroundings following the initial trauma, but then exhibit a decline in consciousness, possibly becoming drowsy or somnolent. It is a crucial observation because it may indicate a developing intracranial hematoma, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.