A client has been started on an anticonvulsant for a seizure disorder and asks how long he will need to take the medication. What is the nurse's best response?
"You will need to take an anticonvulsant of some type for your lifetime."
"This medication should be taken until you haven't had a seizure for a month."
"Seizures are unpredictable and so is the duration of the treatment."
"You will only need to take it for a short period of time because anticonvulsants will cure the seizure disorder."
The Correct Answer is C
A. "You will need to take an anticonvulsant of some type for your lifetime."
This statement may be accurate for some individuals with chronic or recurrent seizure disorders, but it is a generalization. The duration of anticonvulsant therapy varies from person to person, and some individuals may eventually be able to discontinue medication under the guidance of their healthcare provider.
B. "This medication should be taken until you haven't had a seizure for a month."
While seizure control is a factor in determining the duration of treatment, setting a specific timeframe (e.g., one month) may not be applicable to everyone. The decision to continue or discontinue anticonvulsant therapy is usually individualized and based on various factors, including the type of seizure disorder and the individual's response to treatment.
C. "Seizures are unpredictable and so is the duration of the treatment."
This is the best response. It acknowledges the variability in seizure disorders and the individualized nature of treatment duration. Seizure management is often an ongoing process that requires monitoring and adjustments based on the person's specific circumstances.
D. "You will only need to take it for a short period of time because anticonvulsants will cure the seizure disorder."
Anticonvulsants are typically used to manage and control seizures rather than cure the underlying seizure disorder. While some individuals may experience a period of seizure freedom and be able to discontinue medication, this is not true for everyone. The duration of treatment varies, and some individuals may require long-term or even lifelong therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Parkinson's disease
Edrophonium is not used for the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. The diagnosis is typically based on clinical symptoms and neurological examination.
B. Alzheimer's disease
Edrophonium is not used for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting cognition. The diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, cognitive assessments, and sometimes imaging studies, but not the use of edrophonium.
C. Myasthenia Gravis
This is the correct choice. Edrophonium is used as a diagnostic tool in Myasthenia Gravis. In individuals with Myasthenia Gravis, the administration of edrophonium can lead to a temporary improvement in muscle strength, helping to confirm the diagnosis.
D. Serotonin Syndrome
Edrophonium is not used for the diagnosis of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a condition caused by an excess of serotonin, often due to the use of certain medications. Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and a history of serotonin-affecting medications, not the administration of edrophonium.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Before breakfast or lunch
Methylphenidate (Ritalin), a stimulant medication commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is usually administered before breakfast or lunch for maximum effectiveness. This schedule helps align the peak concentration of the medication with the times when increased focus and attention are often needed, such as during school hours.
B. With meals
While it can be administered with meals, the goal is often to have the medication take effect before meals to help with focus and attention during activities like school or work.
C. After dinner
Administering methylphenidate after dinner may interfere with the patient's ability to fall asleep, as the medication can cause insomnia. It is generally recommended to avoid administering it in the late afternoon or evening.
D. At bedtime
Administering methylphenidate at bedtime is not appropriate due to the potential for insomnia. The stimulant effect of the medication is not aligned with the patient's sleep-wake cycle.
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