Free SCRN Exam Questions That Helps Candidates Pass

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

The correct answer is A because new-onset atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response (RVR) is a frequent cardiac complication following acute stroke due to neurocardiac axis stimulation. When the patient is hemodynamically stable, the primary management objective is rate control using agents such as IV metoprolol, diltiazem, or amiodarone, alongside close telemetry and neurological monitoring. Option B is incorrect because unsynchronized defibrillation is reserved for pulseless ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, not stable atrial fibrillation with RVR. Option C is incorrect because potassium administration requires laboratory confirmation of hypokalemia and must be infused cautiously. Option D is incorrect because neurological assessments must never be interrupted. SCRN nurses maintain vigilant cardiorespiratory monitoring to catch and treat paroxysmal arrhythmias quickly.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

The correct answer is A because paroxysmal atrial fibrillation promotes blood stasis inside the atria, favoring the generation of thrombin and fibrin-rich cardioembolic clots that can travel to the cerebral circulation. Dabigatran is a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) that specifically inhibits thrombin, offering superior protection against cardioembolic stroke compared to antiplatelet therapy. Option B is incorrect because DOACs do not alter lipid panels or dissolve plaque. Option C is incorrect because dabigatran does not lower blood pressure. Option D is incorrect because dabigatran targets the coagulation cascade rather than platelet aggregation pathways (which are inhibited by drugs like aspirin or clopidogrel). SCRN nurses educate patients on the precise mechanism of anticoagulants to foster lifelong compliance and safety.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

The correct answer is A because the internal carotid artery (ICA) supplies both the ophthalmic artery (which gives rise to retinal circulation, accounting for ipsilateral transient or permanent monocular visual loss or amaurosis fugax) and the anterior/middle cerebral arteries (supplying the contralateral hemisphere, which accounts for contralateral hemiparesis and aphasia). Option B is incorrect because the PICA supplies the lateral medulla and cerebellum, causing brainstem and cerebellar signs. Option C is incorrect because the basilar artery supplies the pons and brainstem structures. Option D is incorrect because the superior cerebellar artery supplies the superior cerebellum and midbrain. SCRN nurses master cerebral vascular anatomy to correlate complex ocular and neurological symptoms with proximal vascular lesions.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

The correct answer is A because rigorous blood pressure control is the single most important intervention for preventing recurrent stroke. Current guidelines recommend lowering blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg for all stroke survivors, with tighter targets (such as below 130/80 mmHg) recommended for patients with high-risk comorbidities like diabetes mellitus or lacunar strokes, provided treatment is well-tolerated. Option B is incorrect because stopping antihypertensive agents drastically increases the risk of recurrent ischemic and hemorrhagic events. Option C is incorrect because 142/88 mmHg is above the optimal target range and warrants optimization. Option D is incorrect because raising blood pressure with saline is contraindicated in secondary prevention and would worsen hypertension. SCRN nurses educate patients on the vital role of medication adherence, home blood pressure tracking, and salt restriction.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

The correct answer is A because patients with right hemispheric strokes frequently experience left unilateral spatial neglect, causing them to ignore items, people, and safety hazards on their left side. Combined with impaired judgment and impulsivity, this places the patient at extremely high risk for trauma and falls. Effective post-acute transition planning requires comprehensive caregiver education on environmental modifications—such as placing necessary items within the right visual field, arranging rooms to minimize obstacles, and teaching scanning techniques. Option B is incorrect because unilateral spatial neglect can be a chronic, long-term deficit requiring persistent adaptation rather than guaranteed spontaneous resolution. Option C is incorrect because physical restraints are dangerous, increase agitation, and do not substitute for comprehensive safety supervision and environmental structuring. Option D is incorrect because outpatient or home-health continuation of physical, occupational, and speech therapy is vital to maintain functional gains and foster ongoing neurological recovery. Stroke nurses play a pivotal role in bridging acute stabilization with long-term functional independence through targeted discharge education.