0% found this document useful (0 votes)
12 views11 pages

CH 63

The document discusses various nursing assessments and interventions related to neurological conditions, including stroke, migraine headaches, and multiple sclerosis. It emphasizes the importance of caregiver support, patient education, and appropriate responses to seizures and other symptoms. Additionally, it outlines specific nursing actions based on patient conditions and medication effects.

Uploaded by

Alexa Tapia
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
0% found this document useful (0 votes)
12 views11 pages

CH 63

The document discusses various nursing assessments and interventions related to neurological conditions, including stroke, migraine headaches, and multiple sclerosis. It emphasizes the importance of caregiver support, patient education, and appropriate responses to seizures and other symptoms. Additionally, it outlines specific nursing actions based on patient conditions and medication effects.

Uploaded by

Alexa Tapia
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Small emboli can occur during carotid artery angioplasty and stenting, and the aphasia

indicates a possible stroke during the procedure. Slightly elevated pulse rate and blood
pressure are not unusual because of anxiety associated with the procedure. Fine crackles at the
lung bases may indicate atelectasis caused by immobility during the procedure.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis)


TOP: NursingProcess: Assessment MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

28. The home health nurse is caring for an 81-yr-old patient who had a stroke 2 months ago.
Based on patient information shown in the accompanying figure, which action would the
nurse take?

a. Teach about preventing hypoglycemia.


b. Begin processes to obtain a wheelchair.
c. Provide support to the spouse caregiver.
d. Remind the patient to take prescribed medications.
ANS: C
The spouse‘s household and patient care responsibilities, in combination with chronic
illnesses, indicate a high risk for caregiver role strain. The nurse should take appropriate
actions to provide support to the spouse caregiver. The data about the control of the patient‘s
diabetes indicates that hypoglycemia and medication adherence are not a current concern.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning


MSC:NCLEX: Psychosocial Integrity
Chapter 63: Chronic Neurologic Problems
Harding: Lewis’s Medical-Surgical Nursing, 12th Edition

MULTIPLE CHOICE

1. The nurse would determine that teaching about migraine headaches has been effective when
the patient says which of the following?
a. ―I can take the Topiramate (Topamax) as soon as I get a headaches.‖
b. ―I can drink a glass of wine to help me relax and prevent a headache.‖
c. ―I will lie down someplace dark and quiet when the headaches begin.‖
d. ―I will avoid taking aspirin and sumatriptan (Imitrex) at the same time.‖
ANS: C
It is recommended that the patient with a migraine rest in a dark, quiet area. Topiramate
(Topamax) is used to prevent migraines. It must be taken for several months to determine
effectiveness. Aspirin or other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medications can be taken with
the triptans. Alcohol may precipitate migraine headaches.
DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application) TOP: NursingProcess: Evaluation
MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

2. Which finding would the nurse expect when assessing a patient who is experiencing a cluster
headache?
a. Nuchal rigidity
b. Unilateral ptosis
c. Projectile vomiting
d. Bilateral facial pain
ANS: B
Unilateral eye edema, tearing, and ptosis are characteristic of cluster headaches. Nuchal
rigidity suggests meningeal irritation, such as occurs with meningitis. Although nausea and
vomiting may occur with migraine headaches, projectile vomiting is more consistent with
increased intracranial pressure. Unilateral sharp, stabbing pain, rather than throbbing pain, is
characteristic of cluster headaches.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Assessment MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

3. While the nurse is transporting a patient on a stretcher to the radiology department, the patient
begins having a tonic-clonic seizure. Which action would the nurse take?
a. Insert an oral airway during the seizure to maintain a patent airway.
b. Restrain the patient‘s arms and legs to prevent injury during the seizure.
c. Time and observe and record the details of the seizure and postictal state.
d. Avoid touching the patient to prevent further nervous system stimulation.
ANS: C
Because the diagnosis and treatment of seizures frequently are based on the description of the
seizure, recording the length and details of the seizure is important. Insertion of an oral airway
and restraining the patient during the seizure are contraindicated. The nurse may need to move
the patient to decrease the risk of injury during the seizure.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

4. A high school teacher who has been diagnosed with epilepsy after having a generalized
tonic-clonic seizure tells the nurse, ―I cannot teach any more. It will be too upsetting if I have
a seizure at work.‖ How would the nurse respond to specifically address the patient‘s
concern?
a. ―You might benefit from some psychologic counseling.‖
b. ―Epilepsy usually can be well controlled with medications.‖
c. ―You will want to contact the Epilepsy Foundation for assistance.‖
d. ―The Department of Vocational Rehabilitation can help with work retraining.‖
ANS: B
The nurse should inform the patient that most seizure disorders are controlled with
medication. The other information may be necessary if seizures persist after treatment with
antiseizure medications is implemented.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: Psychosocial Integrity

5. A patient has been taking phenytoin (Dilantin) for 2 years. Which action would the nurse take
when evaluating possible adverse effects of the medication?
a. Inspect the oral mucosa.
b. Listen to the lung sounds.
c. Auscultate the bowel sounds.
d. Check pupil reaction to light.
ANS: A
Phenytoin can cause gingival hyperplasia, but does not affect bowel sounds, lung sounds, or
pupil reaction to light.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application) TOP: NursingProcess: Evaluation


MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

6. A patient reports feeling numbness and tingling of the left arm before experiencing a seizure.
Which type of seizure would the nurse suspect?
a. Focal-onset
b. Atonic
c. Absence
d. Myoclonic
ANS: A
The initial symptoms of a focal-onset seizure involve clinical manifestations that are localized
to a particular part of the body or brain; patients may have unusual feelings or sensations.
Symptoms of an absence seizure are staring and a brief loss of consciousness. In an atonic
seizure, the patient loses muscle tone and (typically) falls to the ground. Myoclonic seizures
are characterized by a sudden jerk of the body or extremities.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Assessment MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

7. Which action would the nurse include in completing a health history and physical assessment
for a 36-yr-old female patient with possible multiple sclerosis (MS)?
a. Assess for the presence of chest pain.
b. Inquire about urinary tract problems.
c. Inspect the skin for rashes or discoloration.
d. Ask the patient about any increase in libido.
ANS: B
Urinary tract problems with incontinence or retention are common symptoms of MS. Chest
pain and skin rashes are not symptoms of MS. A decrease in libido is common with MS.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Assessment MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

8. A woman who has multiple sclerosis (MS) asks the nurse about risks associated with
pregnancy. Which response would the nurse provide?
a. ―MS symptoms will be worse after the pregnancy.‖
b. ―Symptoms of MS may improve during pregnancy.‖
c. ―Women with MS frequently have premature labor.‖
d. ―MS is associated with an increased risk for congenital defects.‖
ANS: B
Some women with MS have remission or an improvement in symptoms during pregnancy.
Symptoms of MS may improve during pregnancy. There is no increased risk for congenital
defects in infants born of mothers with MS. Onset of labor is not affected by MS. MS
symptoms will not worsen after pregnancy.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: Health Promotion and Maintenance

9. A patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) is to begin treatment with glatiramer acetate
(Copaxone). Which information would the nurse include in patient teaching?
a. Recommendation to drink at least 4 L of fluid daily
b. Need to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery
c. How to draw up and administer injections of the medication
d. Use of contraceptive methods other than oral contraceptives
ANS: C
Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) is administered by self-injection. Oral contraceptives are an
appropriate choice for birth control while taking Copaxone. There is no need to avoid driving
or drink large fluid volumes when taking glatiramer.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

10. Which information about a patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) indicates that the nurse would
consult with the health care provider before giving the prescribed dose of dalfampridine
(Ampyra)?
a. The patient reports pain with neck flexion.
b. The patient walks a mile each day for exercise.
c. The patient has epilepsy controlled by medication.
d. The patient has the relapsing-remitting form of MS.
ANS: B
Dalfampridine use may cause seizures, especially at higher doses, so it would be important to
evaluate the risk of triggering seizures in someone known to have epilepsy. The other
information will not impact whether the dalfampridine would be administered.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Assessment MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

11. Which action would the nurse plan to take for a patient with multiple sclerosis who has
urinary retention caused by a flaccid bladder?
a. Teach the patient how to self-catheterize.
b. Encourage decreased evening fluid intake.
c. Suggest the use of adult incontinence briefs.
d. Assist the patient to the commode every 2 hours.
ANS: A
The patient may need to intermittently self-catheterize when urinary retention is not relieved
by other means. Decreasing fluid intake will not improve bladder emptying and may increase
risk for urinary tract infection and dehydration. The use of incontinence briefs and frequent
toileting will not improve bladder emptying.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning


MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

12. A patient with Parkinson‘s disease (PD) has bradykinesia. Which action would the nurse
include in the plan of care?
a. Instruct the patient in activities that can be done while lying or sitting.
b. Suggest that the patient use the arms of the chair to help push up to standing.
c. Have the patient take small steps in a straight line directly in front of the feet.
d. Teach the patient to keep the feet in contact with the floor and slide them forward.
ANS: B
Pushing down on the arms of the chair and placing the back legs of the chair on small (2-inch)
blocks help the individual with PD to stand. The patient will be encouraged to continue
exercising because this will maintain functional abilities. Maintaining a wider base of support,
rather than stepping directly forward, will help with balance. The patient should lift the feet
and avoid a shuffling gait.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning


MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

13. Which recommendation would the nurse provide to a patient with myasthenia gravis (MG)?
a. Anticipate the need for weekly plasmapheresis treatments.
b. Complete physically demanding activities early in the day.
c. Protect the extremities from injury due to poor sensory perception.
d. Perform frequent weight-bearing exercise to prevent muscle atrophy.
ANS: B
Muscles are generally strongest in the morning, and muscle weakness is prominent by the end
of the day, so activities involving muscle activity should be scheduled early. Plasmapheresis is
not routinely scheduled but is used for myasthenia crisis or for situations in which
corticosteroid therapy must be avoided. There is no decrease in sensation with MG. Muscle
atrophy does not occur because although muscles are weak, they are still used.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

14. Which medication taken at home by a patient with restless legs syndrome would the nurse
discuss with the patient?
a. Ibuprofen
b. Multivitamin
c. Acetaminophen
d. Diphenhydramine
ANS: D
Antihistamines can aggravate restless legs syndrome. The other medications will not
contribute to restless legs syndrome.
DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)
TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

15. A patient who has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is hospitalized with pneumonia. Which
action would the nurse include in the plan of care?
a. Observe for agitation and paranoia.
b. Assist with active range of motion (ROM).
c. Give muscle relaxants as needed to reduce spasms.
d. Use simple words and phrases to explain procedures.
ANS: B
ALS causes progressive muscle weakness. Assisting the patient to perform active ROM will
help maintain strength as long as possible. Psychotic manifestations such as agitation and
paranoia are not associated with ALS. Cognitive function is not affected by ALS, and the
patient‘s ability to understand procedures will not be impaired. Muscle relaxants will further
increase muscle weakness and depress respirations.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning


MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

16. A 40-yr-old patient is diagnosed with early Huntington‘s disease (HD). What information
would the nurse provide when teaching the patient, spouse, and adult children about this
disorder?
a. Improved nutrition and exercise can delay disease progression.
b. Levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet) will help reduce HD symptoms.
c. Prophylactic antibiotics decrease the risk for aspiration pneumonia.
d. Genetic testing is an option for the children to determine their HD risk.
ANS: D
Genetic testing is available to determine whether an asymptomatic person has the HD gene.
The patient and family should be informed of the benefits and problems associated with
genetic testing. Sinemet will increase symptoms of HD because HD involves an increase in
dopamine. Antibiotic therapy will not reduce the risk for aspiration. There are no effective
treatments or lifestyle changes that delay the progression of HD.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

17. A 74-yr-old patient is seen in the health clinic with new development of a stooped posture,
shuffling gait, and pill rolling–type tremor. Which topic would the nurse anticipate explaining
to the patient?
a. Oral corticosteroids
b. Dopaminergic drugs
c. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
d. Electroencephalogram (EEG) testing
ANS: B
The clinical diagnosis of Parkinson‘s is made when tremor, rigidity, akinesia, and postural
instability are present. The confirmation of the diagnosis is made on the basis of improvement
when dopaminergic drugs are administered. MRI and EEG are not useful in diagnosing
Parkinson‘s disease, and corticosteroid therapy is not used to treat it.
DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning
MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

18. A 22-yr-old patient seen at the health clinic with a severe migraine headache tells the nurse
about having similar headaches recently. Which initial action would the nurse take?
a. Teach about the use of triptan drugs.
b. Refer the patient for stress counseling.
c. Ask the patient to keep a headache diary.
d. Suggest the use of muscle-relaxation techniques.
ANS: C
The initial nursing action should involve further assessment of precipitating causes of the
headaches, quality, and location of pain. A headache diary can help identify the type of
headache and precipitating events. Stress reduction, muscle relaxation, and the triptan drugs
may be helpful, but more assessment is needed first.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

19. A hospitalized patient reports a bilateral headache (4/10 on the pain scale) that radiates from
the base of the skull. Which PRN medication would the nurse expect to be prescribed
initially?
a. lorazepam (Ativan)
b. acetaminophen (Tylenol)
c. morphine sulfate (MS Contin)
d. butalbital and aspirin (Fiorinal)
ANS: B
The patient‘s symptoms are consistent with a tension headache, and initial therapy usually
involves a nonopioid analgesic such as acetaminophen, which is sometimes combined with a
sedative or muscle relaxant. Lorazepam may be used in conjunction with acetaminophen but
would not be used as the initial monotherapy. Morphine sulfate and butalbital and aspirin
would be more appropriate for a headache that did not respond to a nonopioid analgesic.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

20. A patient tells the nurse about using acetaminophen (Tylenol) several times every day for
recurrent bilateral headaches that are present on wakening. Which action would the nurse plan
to take first?
a. Discuss the need to stop taking the acetaminophen.
b. Suggest the use of biofeedback for headache control.
c. Describe the use of botulism toxin (Botox) for headaches.
d. Teach the patient about magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
ANS: A
The headache description suggests that the patient is experiencing medication overuse
headache; drugs known to cause this problem are acetaminophen, aspirin, NSAIDs (e.g.,
ibuprofen), triptans, barbiturates, and ergotamine. The initial action will be withdrawal of the
medication. The other actions may be needed if the headaches persist.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning


MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

21. The health care provider is considering the use of sumatriptan (Imitrex) for a 54-yr-old male
patient with migraine headaches. Which information obtained by the nurse is most important
to report to the health care provider?
a. The patient drinks 1 to 2 cups of coffee daily.
b. The patient had a recent acute myocardial infarction.
c. The patient has had migraine headaches for 30 years.
d. The patient has taken topiramate (Topamax) for 2 months.
ANS: B
Triptans cause coronary artery vasoconstriction and are contraindicated in patients with
coronary artery disease. The other information will be reported to the health care provider, but
none of it indicates that sumatriptan would be an inappropriate treatment.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis)


TOP: NursingProcess: Assessment MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

22. The nurse observes a patient ambulating in the hospital hall. The patient‘s arms and legs
suddenly jerk and the patient falls to the floor. Which action would the nurse take first?
a. Give the scheduled divalproex (Depakote).
b. Document the timing and description of the seizure.
c. Check the environment for sources of potential injury.
d. Notify the patient‘s health care provider about the seizure.
ANS: C
The patient who has had a myoclonic seizure and fall is at risk for additional injury from
contacting objects in the environment; assuring a safe area is a priority. Documentation of the
seizure, notification of the health care provider, and administration of antiseizure medications
may also be appropriate actions, but the initial action would be assessment for injury.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

23. Which prescribed intervention would the emergency department nurse implement first for a
patient who is experiencing continuous tonic-clonic seizures?
a. Give phenytoin (Dilantin) 100 mg IV.
b. Monitor level of consciousness (LOC).
c. Administer lorazepam (Ativan) 4 mg IV.
d. Obtain computed tomography (CT) scan.
ANS: C
To prevent ongoing seizures, the nurse would administer rapidly acting antiseizure
medications such as the benzodiazepines. A CT scan is appropriate, but cannot be done while
the patient is seizing. Phenytoin will also be administered, but it is not rapidly acting. Patients
who are experiencing tonic-clonic seizures are nonresponsive, although the nurse would
assess LOC after the seizure.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity
24. The home health registered nurse (RN) is planning care for a patient with seizure disorder
related to a recent head injury. Which action can the nurse delegate to a licensed
practical/vocational nurse (LPN/VN)?
a. Make referrals to appropriate community agencies.
b. Place medications in the home medication organizer.
c. Teach the patient and family how to manage seizures.
d. Assess for use of medications that may precipitate seizures.
ANS: B
LPN/VN education includes administration of medications. The other activities require RN
education and scope of practice.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning


MSC:NCLEX: Safe and Effective Care Environment

25. A patient is being treated with carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet) for Parkinson‘s disease. Which
assessment finding would indicate to the nurse that a change in the medication or dosage may
be needed?
a. Shuffling gait
b. Tremor at rest
c. Cogwheel rigidity of limbs
d. Uncontrolled head movement
ANS: D
Dyskinesia is an adverse effect of the Sinemet, indicating a need for a change in medication or
decrease in dose. The other findings are typical with Parkinson‘s disease.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning


MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

26. Which patient problem would the nurse identify as of highest priority for a patient who has
Parkinson‘s disease and is unable to move the facial muscles?
a. Activity intolerance
b. Negative self-image
c. Musculoskeletal problem
d. Nutritionally compromised
ANS: D
The data about the patient indicate that poor nutrition will be a concern because of decreased
swallowing. The other diagnoses may also be appropriate for a patient with Parkinson‘s
disease, but the data do not indicate that they are current problems for this patient.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis) TOP: NursingProcess: Analysis


MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

27. Which assessment would the nurse identify as most important regarding a patient who has
myasthenia gravis?
a. Pupil size
b. Grip strength
c. Respiratory effort
d. Level of consciousness
ANS: C
Because respiratory insufficiency may be life threatening, it will be most important to monitor
respiratory function. The other data also will be assessed but are not as critical.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis)


TOP: NursingProcess: Assessment MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

28. After a thymectomy, a patient with myasthenia gravis receives the usual dose of
pyridostigmine (Mestinon). An hour later, the patient reports diarrhea and severe abdominal
cramps. Which action would the nurse take first?
a. Auscultate the patient‘s bowel sounds.
b. Notify the patient‘s health care provider.
c. Administer the prescribed PRN antiemetic drug.
d. Give the scheduled dose of prednisone (Deltasone).
ANS: B
The patient‘s history and symptoms indicate a possible cholinergic crisis. The health care
provider would be notified immediately, and it is likely that atropine will be prescribed. The
other actions will be appropriate if the patient is not experiencing a cholinergic crisis.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

29. A hospitalized patient with a history of cluster headache awakens during the night with a
severe stabbing headache. Which action would the nurse take first?
a. Apply the prescribed PRN O2 at 8 L/min.
b. Put a moist hot pack on the patient‘s neck.
c. Give the ordered PRN acetaminophen (Tylenol).
d. Notify the patient‘s health care provider immediately.
ANS: A
Acute treatment for cluster headache is administration of 100% O2 delivered at a rate of 7 to
12 L/min for 20 minutes. If the patient obtains relief with the O2, there is no immediate need
to notify the health care provider. Cluster headaches last only 60 to 90 minutes, so oral pain
medications have minimal effect. Hot packs are helpful for tension headaches but are not as
likely to reduce pain associated with a cluster headache.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

30. Which intervention would the nurse include in the plan of care for a patient who has primary
restless legs syndrome (RLS) and is having difficulty sleeping?
a. Teach about the use of antihistamines to improve sleep.
b. Suggest that the patient exercise regularly during the day.
c. Recommend exercising to the point of fatigue several times a week.
d. Assure the patient that the problem is transient and likely to resolve.
ANS: B
Nondrug interventions such as getting regular exercise are initially suggested to improve sleep
quality in patients with RLS. Antihistamines and fatigue may aggravate RLS. RLS is likely to
progress in most patients.
DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning
MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

31. Which information about a patient who has a new prescription for phenytoin (Dilantin)
indicates that the nurse should consult with the health care provider before administering the
medication?
a. Patient has tonic-clonic seizures.
b. Patient experiences an aura before seizures.
c. Patient‘s most recent blood pressure is 156/92 mm Hg.
d. Patient has slight elevations in liver function test results.
ANS: D
Patients with compromised liver function may not be able to metabolize phenytoin. The health
care provider may need to choose another antiseizure medication. Phenytoin is an appropriate
medication for patients with tonic-clonic seizures, with or without an aura. Hypertension is
not a contraindication for phenytoin therapy.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Apply (Application)


TOP: NursingProcess: Implementation MSC:NCLEX: PhysiologicalIntegrity

32. After change-of-shift report, which patient would the nurse assess first?
a. Patient with myasthenia gravis who is reporting increased muscle weakness
b. Patient with a bilateral headache described as ―like a band around my head‖
c. Patient with seizures who is scheduled to receive a dose of phenytoin (Dilantin)
d. Patient with Parkinson‘s disease who has developed cogwheel rigidity of the arms
ANS: A
Because increased muscle weakness may indicate the onset of a myasthenic crisis, the nurse
would assess this patient first. The other patients would be assessed but do not appear to need
immediate nursing assessments or actions to prevent life-threatening complications.

DIF:CognitiveLevel: Analyze (Analysis) TOP: NursingProcess: Planning


MSC:NCLEX: Safe and Effective Care Environment

MULTIPLE RESPONSE

1. A patient who has been treated for status epilepticus in the emergency department will be
transferred to the medical nursing unit. Which equipment would the nurse have available in
the patient‘s assigned room? (Select all that apply.)
a. Side rail pads
b. Tongue blade
c. Oxygen mask
d. Suction tubing
e. Urinary catheter
f. Nasogastric tube
ANS: A, C, D

Common questions

Powered by AI

Dalfampridine carries a risk of causing seizures, particularly at higher doses. The nurse should consider this risk especially if the patient has a history of epilepsy, even if it's currently controlled by medication .

Uncontrolled head movements suggest dyskinesia, an adverse effect indicating a possible need to change Sinemet dosage. Normal PD symptoms such as shuffling gait, tremors at rest, or cogwheel rigidity do not necessitate a change in medication .

Teaching the patient how to self-catheterize is the most appropriate intervention when urinary retention cannot be relieved by other means. Simply reducing evening fluid intake, using incontinence briefs, or regular toileting does not address the issue effectively .

The nurse should instruct the patient on how to draw up and administer injections of glatiramer acetate. There's no need to avoid driving or increase fluid intake to 4 liters daily. Oral contraceptives remain a proper choice for birth control while on Copaxone .

Common symptoms of MS that should be assessed include urinary tract problems such as incontinence or retention. Assessing for chest pain and skin rashes is not relevant, as these are not symptoms of MS. Similarly, libido typically decreases rather than increases .

The inability to move facial muscles prioritizes nutritional concerns due to decreased swallowing. Other problems like activity intolerance or negative self-image do not take precedence given the immediate risk of poor nutrition .

Pregnancy can lead to remission or improvement in symptoms for some women with MS. There is no increased risk for congenital defects in infants born to mothers with MS, and onset of labor is not affected by MS. Additionally, symptoms are not expected to worsen post-pregnancy .

The nurse should advise the patient to schedule physically demanding activities for early in the day, as muscle strength is generally stronger in the morning and tends to weaken by the end of the day .

Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine, can actually aggravate restless legs syndrome, making it not recommended for patients with RLS. Other medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are generally not problematic for RLS .

The priority is to administer rapidly acting antiseizure medications such as lorazepam (Ativan) 4 mg IV. Monitoring level of consciousness, administering phenytoin (which doesn't act rapidly), or obtaining a CT scan are important but secondary to stopping the seizure .

You might also like