Question

The community health nurse is preparing a presentation for a group of middle-aged adults. Which factors that impair the level of consciousness should be included? Select all that apply.

Hypoxia Illicit drugs Cardiac arrest Blood pressure Neurologic injury Severe hypoglycemia

Answer 1

All factors are affected impaired level of consciousness.

The major characteristics of consciousness are alertness and being oriented to place and time.When consciousness is decreased, your ability to remain awake, aware, and oriented is impaired. Impaired consciousness can be a medical emergency.

The brain is ultimately responsible formaintaining consciousness. Your brain requires certain amounts of oxygen and glucose in order to function properly.Diseases that damage your brain cells can also cause impaired consciousness. A coma is the most severe level of consciousness impairmen

Levels of impaired consciousness include:

confusion

disorientation

delirium

lethargy,stupor,coma.

• Common causes of decreased consciousness include:

drugs

alcohol

substance abuse

certain medications

epilepsy

low blood sugar

stroke

lack of oxygen to the brain.

*Other underlying causes of decreased consciousness include:

cerebral hemorrhage

dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease

head trauma

brain tumor

heart disease

heat stroke

liver disease

uremia, or end-stage kidney failure

shock.