Question

The nurse is preparing health education for a client who is being discharged after hospitalization for a hemorrhagic stroke. What content should the nurse include in this education?

a) Mild, intermittent seizures can be expected. b) Take ibuprofen for complaints of a serious headache.
c) Take antihypertensive medication as prescribed. d) Drowsiness is normal for the first week after discharge.

Answer 1

The nurse's health education should emphasize the importance of continuing prescribed antihypertensive medications to manage high blood pressure and thus prevent further strokes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include in the health education for a client being discharged after a hemorrhagic stroke the importance of continuing to take prescribed antihypertensive medication. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke, and managing blood pressure is critical in preventing another stroke. Taking ibuprofen is not typically advised for serious headaches following a hemorrhagic stroke due to its blood-thinning properties, which may increase bleeding risk. Mild, intermittent seizures are not to be expected routinely and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider if they occur.

Drowsiness may not be 'normal' for the first week after discharge, and persistent drowsiness should prompt immediate medical evaluation. Patients recovering from a stroke also benefit from physical, occupational, speech, and other therapies to improve function.