When assessing an adult after a fall, the nurse notes a dilated pupil on the right and a hematoma in the right temporal area. The nurse realizes that this likely means that

Question

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The dilation of the right pupil (mydriasis) is likely due to damage to the oculomotor nerve on the right side, which is located in the brainstem and controls the size of the pupil. The hematoma in the right temporal area suggests trauma to the right side of the head, which could cause damage to the oculomotor nerve on the same side (ipsilateral). Therefore, the process affecting the pupil is occurring locally on the right side (ipsilateral pupil dilation).

When Assessing an Adult After a Fall, the Nurse Notes