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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Avoid straining at stool, bending, or lifting heavy objects: These activities can increase intraocular pressure and disrupt healing of the surgical site after cataract extraction. The client should be taught to avoid anything that could strain the eye and risk complications like hemorrhage or wound dehiscence.

B. Irrigate conjunctiva with ophthalmic saline prior to instilling antibiotic ointment:
Routine irrigation is not required and may introduce additional risk. Clients are instructed on proper hand hygiene and drop instillation rather than conjunctival irrigation.

C. Do not read without direct lighting for 6 weeks: While good lighting helps reduce eye strain, reading in lower light does not delay healing after cataract surgery. This instruction is unnecessary and could limit the client’s ability to resume normal activities.

D. Limit exposure to sunlight during the first 2 weeks when the cornea is healing: Although bright light can be uncomfortable post-surgery, wearing sunglasses typically offers sufficient protection. There is no requirement to restrict sunlight exposure completely.

A. Temperature 99.9° F (37.7° C) B. Respirations 34 breaths/minute C. Heart rate 136 beats/minute D. Weak peripheral pulses E. Dry mucous membranes F. Body mass index (BMI) 21.9 kg/m2 G. Blood pressure 100/52 mm Hg H. Poor skin turgor

Correct Answer is ["C","D","E","G","H"]

Explanation

A. Temperature 99.9° F (37.7° C): A mild fever (99.9°F) is not a direct indicator of dehydration but could be related to other factors, including the body’s response to stress. It is not an immediate priority compared to other signs like poor skin turgor or low blood pressure.

B. Respirations 34 breaths/minute: An elevated respiratory rate may occur with dehydration, but it is not specific to dehydration alone. It should be monitored, especially when combined with other symptoms, but it is not a sole indicator of dehydration.

C. Heart rate 136 beats/minute: A heart rate of 136 beats per minute is elevated and may indicate dehydration, as the body attempts to compensate for reduced blood volume. Tachycardia is a common response to fluid loss and requires immediate follow-up.

D. Weak peripheral pulses: Weak peripheral pulses reflect poor circulation, which can be a result of dehydration. This finding indicates decreased perfusion and demands urgent attention to restore fluid balance and ensure proper circulation.

E. Dry mucous membranes: Dry mucous membranes are a hallmark sign of dehydration, as the body reduces fluid availability for non-essential processes. This finding should be immediately addressed, as it is a clear sign of fluid loss.

F. Body mass index (BMI) 21.9 kg/m²: BMI is a general indicator of body weight and is not related to fluid balance. While it provides useful information about the client’s overall health, it does not directly point to dehydration or fluid loss.

G. Blood pressure 100/52 mm Hg: Low blood pressure, especially in the context of dehydration, is a significant concern. A blood pressure of 100/52 mm Hg is a sign of hypovolemia or fluid loss, and immediate intervention is needed to restore normal fluid volume and prevent shock.

H. Poor skin turgor: Poor skin turgor is a classic sign of dehydration, where the skin remains tented after being pinched. This indicates a lack of sufficient fluid in the body, which must be addressed immediately to prevent further complications.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is preparing an older adult client for discharge following cataract extraction. Which instruction should be included in the discharge teaching?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Exhibits The nurse reviews the intake information prior to seeing the client. What finding(s) should the nurse recognize as signs of dehydration that require immediate follow up? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["C","D","E","G","H"]

Explanation

Exhibits The nurse considers the brief interaction with the client and the triage report. Which finding(s) should the nurse investigate further? Select all that apply.

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