NR 340 CRITICAL CARE NURSING Neurology Latest Review Exam Q & A 2026 (Complete And Verified Study material) (23pages) LEARNEXAMS

1. A 58-year-old male patient with a history of hypertension and diabetes presents with a sudden onset of right-sided weakness and aphasia. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis? A. Hemorrhagic stroke B. Ischemic stroke C. Transient ischemic attack D. Hypoglycemic episode Answer: B. Ischemic stroke Rationale: The sudden onset of unilateral weakness and aphasia is highly suggestive of an ischemic stroke, particularly in a patient with risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes. 2. A nurse is assessing a patient with a suspected subarachnoid hemorrhage. Which of the following symptoms is most indicative of this condition? A. Gradual onset of headache B. Thunderclap headache C. Photophobia D. Neck stiffness Answer: B. Thunderclap headache Rationale: A thunderclap headache is a classic symptom of subarachnoid hemorrhage and is often described as "the worst headache of my life." 3. When performing a neurological assessment on a patient with a traumatic brain injury, which of the following findings would indicate increased intracranial pressure (ICP)? A. Bradycardia B. Hypertension C. Irregular respirations D. All of the above Answer: D. All of the above Rationale: The combination of bradycardia, hypertension, and irregular respirations, known as Cushing's triad, is a sign of increased ICP.