Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which symptom is most likely to be observed immediately after cerebral hemorrhage?

1. Loss of consciousness

2. Severe headache

3. Slurred speech

4. Visual disturbances

The correct answer is: Severe headache

The symptom most likely to be observed immediately after a cerebral hemorrhage is a severe headache. This type of headache is often described as the "worst headache of one's life" and can occur suddenly and intensely. It is caused by irritation to the meninges by the blood, increased intracranial pressure, or nerve stimulation due to the hemorrhage. This characteristic symptom helps in the rapid identification of a cerebral hemorrhage and necessitates immediate medical intervention. Loss of consciousness, while possible, may not occur with all types of hemorrhages and might develop depending on the extent and location of the bleed. Slurred speech and visual disturbances can also occur but typically are associated with the later progression of the condition or specific brain areas affected, rather than being immediate and defining symptoms right after the hemorrhage.