A client who is admitted after an episode of status epilepticus is stabilized. Which finding should the nurse use to determine the client's risk for recurrence of seizure activity?
Type of anticonvulsant prescribed.
History of a recent illness.
Therapeutic level of medication.
Duration of previous seizure activity.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Type of anticonvulsant prescribed: While the class or type of anticonvulsant influences seizure control, it does not directly indicate whether the client is receiving a sufficient dosage. The therapeutic effectiveness depends more on blood concentration than classification.
B. History of a recent illness: Acute illness can temporarily lower the seizure threshold, but it is a less specific indicator for predicting recurrence than pharmacologic control. The underlying condition must be assessed, but medication levels are more predictive of seizure risk.
C. Therapeutic level of medication: A subtherapeutic drug level is a strong predictor of seizure recurrence. Maintaining an adequate plasma concentration ensures optimal seizure control and is crucial in clients recovering from status epilepticus, where precise management is essential.
D. Duration of previous seizure activity: The length of the prior seizure can indicate severity but not the likelihood of recurrence. Even brief seizures can recur if anticonvulsant levels are inadequate, so duration is not as clinically useful as drug level monitoring.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. If I experience any difficulty with breathing I will report it: Difficulty breathing is a serious side effect of itraconazole, which can cause respiratory issues such as shortness of breath. The client should report this immediately, making this statement appropriate.
B. Drinking grapefruit juice will increase the effects of the medication: Grapefruit juice increases the effects of many medications, including itraconazole, by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for metabolizing the drug.
C. Monitoring for changes in stool color is important: Itraconazole can cause liver toxicity, and monitoring stool color is important as it can indicate liver issues, such as jaundice. The client’s awareness of this potential side effect is appropriate.
D. I should take the medication with antacids: This statement requires correction because antacids can reduce the absorption of itraconazole. The medication should be taken with an acidic drink like cola, not with antacids, to ensure proper absorption.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Heart rate 100 beats/minute: A compensatory increase in heart rate (tachycardia) is expected in orthostatic hypotension. It helps maintain cerebral perfusion when blood pools in the lower extremities after standing quickly.
B. Blood pressure 125/65 mm Hg: This BP shows a slight systolic increase, which is not typical after orthostatic stress. A decrease in BP, not an increase, would be expected if symptoms like dizziness are present.
C. Heart rate 70 beats/minute: A decreased heart rate is not physiologically expected when someone experiences postural hypotension. Bradycardia would worsen cerebral perfusion and is inconsistent with dizziness.
D. Blood pressure 115/70 mm Hg: This change is too minor to explain dizziness. In orthostatic hypotension, we usually expect a drop of ≥20 mm Hg systolic or ≥10 mm Hg diastolic after position change.
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