A child with cerebral palsy (CP) is taking baclofen, a relaxant. Which assessment finding indicates to the practical nurse (PN) that the drug is effective?
Increased appetite.
Sufficient urinary output.
Fewer temper outbursts.
Decreased muscular spasticity.
The Correct Answer is A
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant that can help relieve muscle spasms and manage conditions such as cerebral palsy¹. An assessment finding that indicates the drug is effective for a child with cerebral palsy would be decreased muscular spasticity. This means that the child's muscles are less stiff and rigid, which can improve their mobility and overall quality of life.
The other choices are incorrect because they are not directly related to the therapeutic effects of baclofen. Baclofen is a muscle relaxant that is used to relieve muscle spasms and stiffness. While it may have other effects on the body, its primary therapeutic effect is to decrease muscular spasticity.
- Increased appetite is not a known effect of baclofen.
- Sufficient urinary output is important for overall health, but it is not directly related to the effectiveness of baclofen.
- Fewer temper outbursts may be an indirect result of decreased muscular spasticity and improved mobility, but it is not a direct effect of baclofen.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Limited abduction of the legs in a newborn can be a sign of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), a condition in which the hip joint is not properly formed. The practical nurse (PN) should notify the healthcare provider of this finding so that further assessment and appropriate intervention can be initiated.
Performing range of motion to the joint (A) is not appropriate without a healthcare provider's order. Continuing care as if this is a normal finding (B) is not appropriate because limited abduction of the legs in a newborn can be a sign of DDH. While documenting the finding in the record (D) is important, notifying the healthcare provider is the most important action for the PN to take next.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The first action the PN should take is to check the client's serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level. This hormone is produced by the placenta and can provide important information about the viability of the pregnancy.
Option B, verifying the date of the last menstrual cycle, can provide useful information about the gestational age of the pregnancy but is not the first priority.
Option C, repeating a urine pregnancy test, can confirm the presence of a pregnancy but does not provide information about its viability.
Option D, inquiring about the last occurrence of intercourse, is not relevant to addressing the client's immediate concern of vaginal bleeding.
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