NUR 5461/NUR5461 Module 4 V3 |
Neurological System Q&A with Rationale |
William Paterson University
1. A patient presents with a widening pulse pressure, bradycardia, and irregular respirations.
Which condition should the nurse suspect?
A. Hypovolemic shock
B. Cushing’s Triad
C. Septic shock
D. Pulmonary embolism
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Cushing’s triad is a late sign of increased intracranial pressure. It
consists of bradycardia, widening pulse pressure, and respiratory irregularities. This
clinical finding requires immediate intervention to prevent brain herniation.
2. Which neurotransmitter deficiency is primarily associated with the development of
Parkinson’s disease?
A. Acetylcholine
B. Dopamine
C. Serotonin
,D. Gamma-aminobutyric acid
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Parkinson’s disease results from the loss of dopaminergic neurons in
the substantia nigra. The resulting lack of dopamine creates an imbalance between
excitatory and inhibitory signals in the basal ganglia. This imbalance leads to the
characteristic motor symptoms such as tremors and rigidity.
3. A patient is suspected of having Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Which pathophysiological process
characterizes this disease?
A. Degeneration of lower motor neurons
B. Demyelination of the central nervous system axons
C. Excessive production of acetylcholine
D. Atrophy of the cerebral cortex
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune condition that attacks the myelin
sheath of nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This demyelination disrupts the normal
conduction of electrical impulses. Over time, the repeated inflammation can lead to
permanent axonal damage and scarring.
4. Which clinical manifestation is a hallmark of Myasthenia Gravis?
A. Ascending paralysis starting in the feet
, B. Muscle weakness that improves with rest
C. Involuntary pill-rolling tremors
D. Sudden onset of severe ‘thunderclap’ headache
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Myasthenia Gravis involves the destruction of acetylcholine receptors
at the neuromuscular junction. Muscle weakness typically worsens with activity and
improves significantly with rest. This fatigue-related weakness is a primary diagnostic
indicator for the disorder.
5. In the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), what is the maximum score a patient can receive?
A. 10
B. 12
C. 15
D. 18
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: The Glasgow Coma Scale is used to assess the level of consciousness
in neurologically impaired patients. It evaluates eye opening, verbal response, and motor
response. A score of 15 indicates a fully awake and oriented individual.
Neurological System Q&A with Rationale |
William Paterson University
1. A patient presents with a widening pulse pressure, bradycardia, and irregular respirations.
Which condition should the nurse suspect?
A. Hypovolemic shock
B. Cushing’s Triad
C. Septic shock
D. Pulmonary embolism
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Cushing’s triad is a late sign of increased intracranial pressure. It
consists of bradycardia, widening pulse pressure, and respiratory irregularities. This
clinical finding requires immediate intervention to prevent brain herniation.
2. Which neurotransmitter deficiency is primarily associated with the development of
Parkinson’s disease?
A. Acetylcholine
B. Dopamine
C. Serotonin
,D. Gamma-aminobutyric acid
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Parkinson’s disease results from the loss of dopaminergic neurons in
the substantia nigra. The resulting lack of dopamine creates an imbalance between
excitatory and inhibitory signals in the basal ganglia. This imbalance leads to the
characteristic motor symptoms such as tremors and rigidity.
3. A patient is suspected of having Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Which pathophysiological process
characterizes this disease?
A. Degeneration of lower motor neurons
B. Demyelination of the central nervous system axons
C. Excessive production of acetylcholine
D. Atrophy of the cerebral cortex
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune condition that attacks the myelin
sheath of nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This demyelination disrupts the normal
conduction of electrical impulses. Over time, the repeated inflammation can lead to
permanent axonal damage and scarring.
4. Which clinical manifestation is a hallmark of Myasthenia Gravis?
A. Ascending paralysis starting in the feet
, B. Muscle weakness that improves with rest
C. Involuntary pill-rolling tremors
D. Sudden onset of severe ‘thunderclap’ headache
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Myasthenia Gravis involves the destruction of acetylcholine receptors
at the neuromuscular junction. Muscle weakness typically worsens with activity and
improves significantly with rest. This fatigue-related weakness is a primary diagnostic
indicator for the disorder.
5. In the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), what is the maximum score a patient can receive?
A. 10
B. 12
C. 15
D. 18
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: The Glasgow Coma Scale is used to assess the level of consciousness
in neurologically impaired patients. It evaluates eye opening, verbal response, and motor
response. A score of 15 indicates a fully awake and oriented individual.
