A nurse is caring for a client in the emergency department who has a preliminary diagnosis of a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Which of the following diagnostic testing should the nurse anticipate the provider to prescribe?

Choice A rationale A complete blood count (CBC) provides information about red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. While a CBC is part of a general workup, it is not a primary diagnostic test for identifying the vascular source or specific pathology associated with a transient ischemic attack. Choice B rationale Computerized tomography angiography (CTA) is a crucial diagnostic tool for TIA as it provides detailed imaging of the cerebral vasculature. This allows for the identification of stenoses, occlusions, or other abnormalities in the blood vessels supplying the brain, which are common causes of TIAs. Choice C rationale Prothrombin time (PT) assesses the extrinsic pathway of coagulation and is used to monitor anticoagulant therapy. While coagulation status may be assessed, PT is not a primary diagnostic test to determine the etiology or directly visualize the vascular events of a TIA. Choice D rationale A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is highly valuable for identifying cardiac sources of emboli, such as atrial fibrillation, valvular heart disease, or patent foramen ovale, that can lead to TIAs by dislodging clots that travel to the cerebral circulation.