48. A possible complication from a carotid endarterectomy performed for transient ischemic attacks is:
48. A possible complication from a carotid endarterectomy performed for transient ischemic attacks is:
Test-Taking Tip
Use the process of elimination and consider how close the surgical site is to the area damaged.
Content Area: Adult Health, Vascular; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/Potential for Complications from Surgical Procedures and Health Alterations
.
Answer 1 is incorrect because cranial nerve XII is not in close proximity to the carotid artery. Answer 2 is correct because the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) can be damaged during surgical retraction. Other complications include hemorrhage and neurological impairment. Answer 3 is incorrect because any compression or swelling that may occur would most likely be due to interstitial edema from trauma, not lymph node enlargement. Answer 4 is incorrect because visual damage would be associated with damage to cranial nerve II, III, IV, or VI; none of these cranial nerves is affected by the procedure.
