CNS Patient Safety Protocols 2

Question 1

A patient with an acute ischemic stroke has not yet passed a bedside swallow screen. Which action is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Keep the patient NPO until the screen is passed

Answer

Stroke patients stay NPO, including oral meds, until a validated dysphagia screen is passed, which lowers aspiration pneumonia risk.

Question 2

Which seizure precaution is NOT recommended in current practice?

Accepted Answer

Placing a tongue blade in the patient's mouth during a seizure

Answer

Putting anything in the mouth during a seizure can cause dental, oral, or airway injury and is contraindicated.

Question 3

After IV alteplase for stroke, which blood pressure limit must be kept for the first 24 hours?

Accepted Answer

Below 180/105 mmHg

Answer

AHA/ASA guidelines call for BP below 180/105 mmHg for 24 hours after thrombolysis to reduce hemorrhage risk.

Question 4

A patient receiving alteplase suddenly develops a severe headache and vomiting. What is the first action?

Accepted Answer

Stop the infusion and notify the provider for an emergent head CT

Answer

New headache, vomiting, or neuro decline during thrombolysis suggests intracranial hemorrhage, so stop the infusion and get imaging right away.

Question 5

Which intervention best prevents venous thromboembolism in an immobile patient with acute intracerebral hemorrhage?

Accepted Answer

Intermittent pneumatic compression starting on the day of admission

Answer

Guidelines recommend intermittent pneumatic compression from admission for ICH, while graduated stockings alone are not effective.

CNS - Certified Neuro Specialist Practice Test