Question

A client is hospitalized when they present to the Emergency Department with right-sided weakness. Within 6 hours of being admitted, the neurologic deficits had resolved and the client was back to their presymptomatic state. The nurse caring for the client knows that the probable cause of the neurologic deficit was what?

a) Cerebral aneurysm
b) Transient ischemic attack
c) Left-sided stroke
d) Right-sided stroke

Answer 1

The client's brief neurological episode that resolved on its own is consistent with a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA).

Step-by-step explanation:

The probable cause of the client's neurologic deficit with symptoms that resolved within 6 hours is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). A TIA has stroke-like symptoms that are temporary and usually resolve within 24 hours. Unlike a stroke, where the effects last longer and can be permanent, a TIA occurs when the blood flow to a part of the brain is briefly interrupted but then spontaneously restores, typically without permanent damage to the brain.

TIAs are an important warning sign and should be taken seriously as they can indicate the potential for a future, more severe stroke. Immediate medical attention and diagnostic work-up following a TIA can help to address any underlying risk factors or causes and implement preventive measures to reduce the risk of a full-blown stroke.