Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
A client admitted to the nursing unit with a closed head injury 6 hours ago has begun to vomit, and reports being dizzy and having a headache. Based on these data, which is the most important nursing action?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The client with a closed head injury is at risk of developing increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Increased ICP is evidenced by signs and symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, weakness, and vomiting. Because of the implications of the client's manifestations, the most important nursing action is to notify the primary health care provider. Although the other nursing actions are not inappropriate, none of them address the critical issue of the potential of the client developing ICP.