. A patient who has recently been diagnosed with an aneurysm and been placed on aneurysm precautions will have which of the following incorporated into his plan of care?

Question

A) Elevate the head of the bed to 45 degrees.
B) Maintain the patient on complete bed rest.
C) Administer enemas when the patient is constipated.
D) Avoid use of thigh-high elastic compression stockings.

Answer 1

Ans: B
Feedback: Cerebral aneurysm precautions are implemented for the patient with a diagnosis of aneurysm to provide a nonstimulating environment, prevent increases in ICP, and prevent further bleeding. The patient is placed on immediate and absolute bed rest in a quiet, nonstressful environment because activity, pain, and anxiety elevate the blood pressure, which increases the risk for bleeding. Visitors, except for family, are restricted. The head of the bed is elevated 15 to 30 degrees to promote venous drainage and decrease ICP. Some neurologists, however, prefer that the patient remain flat to increase cerebral perfusion. No enemas are permitted, but stool softeners and mild laxatives are prescribed. Thigh-high elastic compression stockings or sequential compression boots may be ordered to decrease the patient's risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT).