BCEN BCEN Neurological Emergencies 2

Question 1

Which stroke syndrome presents with ipsilateral facial weakness and contralateral body weakness?

Accepted Answer

Middle cerebral artery stroke

Answer

MCA strokes often cause contralateral hemiplegia with face and arm involvement, as MCA supplies the primary motor cortex.

Question 2

A patient post-seizure is confused and lethargic. What is this period called?

Accepted Answer

Postictal state

Answer

The postictal state is a transient period of confusion and fatigue that follows a seizure as the brain recovers.

Question 3

Which of the following is the priority intervention for a patient with a suspected spinal cord injury?

Accepted Answer

Spinal immobilization

Answer

Spinal immobilization is the immediate priority to prevent secondary injury from movement before definitive imaging and diagnosis.

Question 4

Battle's sign (bruising over the mastoid process) is associated with which type of injury?

Accepted Answer

Basilar skull fracture

Answer

Battle's sign is a delayed ecchymosis behind the ear that indicates a basilar skull fracture at the posterior fossa.

Question 5

A patient has weakness, diplopia, and dysphagia that worsen throughout the day. What neurological emergency should be suspected?

Accepted Answer

Myasthenia gravis crisis

Answer

Myasthenic crisis presents with fatigable weakness that worsens with activity and may require ventilatory support.

(BCEN) Board of Certification of Emergency Nursing Practice Test