During discharge education, what is crucial for a nurse to include for a patient who has had a hemorrhagic stroke?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. After a hemorrhagic stroke, the patient is at increased risk of rebleeding or elevated intracranial pressure. High-intensity activities can raise blood pressure and strain cerebral vessels, which may worsen outcomes. Discharge education should emphasize gradual, low-impact activity with professional guidance, ensuring safe recovery and minimizing complications. B. Blood thinners are generally contraindicated after a hemorrhagic stroke because they increase the risk of further bleeding. This differs from ischemic stroke, where anticoagulants may be indicated. Encouraging routine use would be unsafe. C. Although maintaining normal blood glucose supports overall recovery, it is not the primary concern immediately post-hemorrhagic stroke. Blood sugar management is supportive but does not directly prevent rebleeding. D. A high-sodium diet can increase blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for recurrent hemorrhagic stroke. Sodium intake should be controlled or limited, not increased.