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    Med Surg Proctored Exam(Exemplify)
    Select All That Apply

    In managing a client experiencing an ischemic stroke, which of the following interventions should be prioritized based on the client's presentation and treatment plan? Select three that apply.

    Explanation & Rationale

    Ischemic stroke occurs when blood flow to a portion of the brain is obstructed, leading to cerebral ischemia and potential infarction. Rapid assessment and intervention are critical to preserve brain tissue and reduce long-term neurological deficits. Management priorities include stabilizing physiological parameters, identifying eligibility for thrombolytic therapy, and closely monitoring for complications such as hemorrhage or worsening neurological status. Time-sensitive treatment significantly influences patient outcomes. Rationale: A. Ensuring continuous assessment of blood pressure and glucose levels is essential because both hypertension and hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia can worsen cerebral injury. Blood pressure must be carefully managed to maintain adequate cerebral perfusion without increasing the risk of hemorrhagic transformation. Glucose levels also affect neuronal recovery and should be tightly controlled during the acute phase of stroke. B. Monitoring for signs of bleeding and neurological status following thrombolytic therapy is critical because thrombolytics significantly increase the risk of intracranial and systemic hemorrhage. Frequent neurological assessments help detect early deterioration, while monitoring for bleeding ensures timely intervention. This is especially important after administration of fibrinolytic agents. C. Initiating a comprehensive rehabilitation plan before stabilizing the client's acute condition is not appropriate. Acute management must first focus on stabilizing the client, ensuring airway protection, and restoring cerebral perfusion. Rehabilitation is an important part of recovery but should begin only after the client is medically stable. D. Administering intravenous alteplase within the appropriate time frame if not contraindicated is a priority intervention for eligible clients with ischemic stroke. Alteplase works by dissolving the thrombus and restoring cerebral blood flow. Timely administration within the therapeutic window is critical to minimize brain damage and improve functional outcomes. E. Educating the client on the importance of balancing nutritional intake without focusing on specific dietary restrictions is not an acute priority. While nutrition education is important for long-term stroke prevention, immediate management focuses on stabilizing neurological function and preventing complications. Specific dietary modifications are addressed later in the recovery phase.

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