The nurse on the neurotrauma unit receives report on 4 clients. Which client should the nurse assess first?

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A subdural hematoma is caused by bleeding into the subdural space and is the result of blunt force head trauma. It is life-threatening, as increased pressure from the hematoma on the brain can lead to decreased cerebral perfusion and herniation (mid-line shift). Assessing for signs of increased intracranial pressure, including change in level of consciousness, Cushing triad (hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations), ipsilateral pupil dilation, headache, and vomiting, is critical as surgery to evacuate the hematoma and relieve the pressure may be necessary. (Option A) Manifestations of neurogenic shock include hypotension and bradycardia. Although the client has bradycardia and requires monitoring, the client is normotensive and has normal skin color and temperature, which indicate adequate perfusion. (Option B) Headache, transient change in level of consciousness, and inability to remember the injury (retrograde amnesia) are expected manifestations of a concussion. The Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15 (range: 3-15) indicates complete orientation. (Option D) Central diabetes insipidus results from head trauma. Damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland leads to decreased antidiuretic hormone secretion, resulting in increased serum osmolality (>295 mOsmol/kg [295 mmol/kg]). Treatment is necessary, but polyuria (>200 mL/hr) and hypernatremia (sodium >145 mEq/L [145 mmol/L]) due to dehydration are expected manifestations. Educational objective: A subdural hematoma is caused by bleeding into the subdural space outside the brain. Surgical evacuation of the hematoma may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the brain, as increased intracranial pressure can lead to decreased cerebral perfusion, herniation (mid-line shift), and death.

The Nurse on the Neurotrauma Unit Receives Report on 4