Diagnostic testing has revealed that the patient has an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Surgical treatment is scheduled for tomorrow
Which critical assessment findings should the nurse report to the surgeon? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply. 1. Headache unchanged since admission
2. Seizure
3. A period of sudden clarity after previously disturbed thought processing
4. Increased difficulty in talking
5. Sudden decrease in level of consciousness
2,4,5
Rationale 1: Headache is a common finding in AVM and may be the reason the patient presented for treatment. The headache will likely continue until the AVM is treated.
Rationale 2: Because AVMs often affect cortical brain, seizures are common.
Rationale 3: There is no indication that a period of lucidity will change the patient's treatment plan. The AVM poses a lifelong risk of rupture and should be treated.
Rationale 4: Increased difficulty talking may indicate that the AVM is leaking.
Rationale 5: A sudden decrease in LOC indicates possible rupture of the AVM, which is an emergency.
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