Question

The nurse is educating a patient about care after a head injury. Which symptoms should the nurse instruct the patient and caregiver to immediately notify a health care provider about? Select all that apply.

a) Sneezing
b) Seizures
c) Stiff neck
d) Constipation
e) Increased drowsiness

Answer 1

The patient and caregiver should immediately notify a health care provider if the patient experiences seizures, a stiff neck, or increased drowsiness following a head injury, as these symptoms can indicate serious complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

Following a head injury, it is essential to monitor for signs and symptoms that might indicate a more serious condition. The nurse should instruct the patient and caregiver to immediately notify a health care provider about the following symptoms:

• Seizures: Sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain. This could indicate an increased risk of complications after a head injury.
• Stiff neck: This might be a sign of meningitis or other serious complications that can occur after a head injury.
• Increased drowsiness: Excessive sleepiness or a significant change in alertness can suggest brain injury has affected the patient's cognitive functions.

While sneezing and constipation might be uncomfortable, they are not typically signs of a serious post-head injury complication that would require immediate medical attention.