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. A respiratory rate of 14
A respiratory rate of 14 is within the normal range and is not typically a reason to hold benztropine. Respiratory depression is not a common side effect of this medication.
B. A pulse of 102
A pulse rate of 102 is also within the normal range, and changes in heart rate are generally not a prominent side effect of benztropine. This finding alone is not a typical reason to hold the medication.
C. Blood pressure of 88/60 mmHg
This is the correct choice. Anticholinergic medications, like benztropine, can cause side effects such as a decrease in blood pressure. A blood pressure of 88/60 mmHg may be a concern, and the nurse should hold the dose and notify the physician.
D. A temperature of 100.2°F
An elevated temperature of 100.2°F is not a direct contraindication to benztropine administration. Fever is not a typical side effect of this medication, so an increased temperature alone is not a reason to hold the dose.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Aspirin has the potential to cause gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in children.
While it is true that aspirin can cause GI bleeding, this is not the primary concern in this scenario. Reye's syndrome, a severe and potentially fatal condition, is the more significant worry when aspirin is given to children with viral infections.
B. Aspirin has the potential to cause hyperglycemia.
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) is not a known effect of aspirin in children. Aspirin is not typically associated with glucose metabolism issues.
C. Aspirin has the potential to cause ringing in the ears (tinnitus) in children.
Tinnitus can occur with aspirin use, but it is not the primary concern in this situation. Reye's syndrome is a more serious and immediate risk associated with aspirin use in children with viral infections.
D. Aspirin has the potential to cause Reye's syndrome in children.
This is the correct and most significant concern. Reye's syndrome is a rare but severe condition associated with aspirin use in children during or after viral infections. It affects the liver and brain and can be life-threatening.
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