A mother reports that her child has episodes where he appears to be staring into space. This behaviour is characteristic of which type of seizure?
Atonic
Absence
Simple partial
Tonic-clonic
The Correct Answer is B
The behaviour described, where the child appears to be staring into space, is characteristic of
B. Absence seizures.
Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are a type of generalized seizure that primarily affects children. These seizures are brief and usually last for a few seconds. During an absence seizure, the child may appear to be staring blankly into space, unaware of their surroundings. They may not respond to stimuli or engage in any purposeful activity.After the seizure ends, the child typically resumes their previous activity without any memory of the seizure.
Atonic seizures in (option A) is incorrect because it involves a sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to a limp or "drop"in the person.
Simple partial seizures in (option C) are focal seizures that affect a specific region of the brain, causing localizedsymptoms such as twitching or tingling in a particular body part.
Tonic-clonic seizures in (option D) also known as grand mal seizures, is incorrect because it involves a combination of muscle rigidity (tonic phase) and jerking movements (clonic phase).
Therefore, based on the description provided, the behaviour of staring into space is characteristic of B. Absence seizures. It is important for the child to be evaluated by a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of their seizures.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
During adolescence, there is a period of rapid physical growth and development. This growth spurt requires additional energy and resources from the body, which can lead to increased fatigue and a heightened need for sleep. The body utilizes sleep as a time for rest, repair, and growth, and during this growth phase, the demand for restorative sleep tends to increase.
decreased activity in (option B) is incorrect because it, does not necessarily contribute to an increased need for sleep. While decreased activity may result in less fatigue and the perception of needing less sleep, it is not a predisposing factor for feeling an increased need for sleep.
typical lack of ambition in (option C) is incorrect because it, is not associated with an increased need for sleep. Lack of ambition refers to a lack of motivation or drive, which is not directly related to the physiological need for sleep.
an inadequate diet in (option D) is incorrect because it, can affect overall health and well- being, but it is not specifically associated with an increased need for sleep. However, a well- balanced and nutritious diet can support healthy growth and development, including adequate sleep patterns.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The statement that accurately describes the difference between the central nervous system (CNS) of a child and an adult is option A. The brain of a term infant weighs less than half of the weight of the adult brain. The brain undergoes significant growth and development during childhood and continues to develop until early adulthood. At birth, the brain is only a fraction of its adult weight, and it continues to grow and mature over time.
infant has 150 mL of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) compared with 50 mL in the adult in (option B), is incorrect. The volume of CSF in the CNS is not a significant difference between children and adults.
coordination and fine motor skills develop as myelination of peripheral nerves progresses in (option C), is an incorrect statement. Myelination is an ongoing process that occurs throughout childhood and contributes to the development of coordination and fine motor skills.
papilledema is a common manifestation of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in the very young child in (option D), is not correct. Papilledema refers to swelling of the optic disc and is not commonly seen in very young children. Signs of increased ICP in young children may present differently compared to adults and can include altered mental status, irritability, vomiting, and changes in vital signs.

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