NCLEX MED-SURG BOOT CAMP STUDY GUIDE BUNDLE (2026 UPDATE) | KEY CONDITIONS & COMPLETE SOLUTIONSQUESTION 1 A patient presents with sudden onset of right-sided weakness, facial droop, and aphasia. What is the priority action? ANSWER>>: Perform a rapid stroke assessment and activate emergency response system immediately. Rationale: Time is brain. Rapid assessment and activation of the stroke team allow for timely administration of tPA or endovascular intervention, which can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality. QUESTION 2 For a patient with an ischemic stroke, what is the time window for administration of tPA (tissue plasminogen activator)? ANSWER>>: Within 3-4.5 hours of symptom onset. Rationale: tPA must be given within 3 hours (up to 4.5 hours in select patients) to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow; beyond this window, the risk of hemorrhage outweighs benefits. QUESTION 3 Which medication is contraindicated in a patient with a hemorrhagic stroke? ANSWER>>: Anticoagulants (e.g., heparin, warfarin) and antiplatelets (e.g., aspirin). Rationale: In hemorrhagic stroke, bleeding is already occurring; anticoagulants and antiplatelets would worsen bleeding and increase mortality. QUESTION 4 In a patient with multiple sclerosis (MS), what triggers an exacerbation of symptoms? ANSWER>>: Stress, infection, fatigue, pregnancy, or overheating (Uhthoff phenomenon). Rationale: These factors