A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and a new prescription for riluzole. The nurse understands that this medication works in which of the following ways?
It suppresses the virus which is responsible for causing the inflammation of the nerve.
It prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine to increase the amount available at the neuromuscular junction.
It reduces inflammation in the CNS to prevent further demyelination of nerves in the central nervous system.
It slows the progression of the disease by decreasing the release of glutamate in the brain.
The Correct Answer is D
A. ALS is not caused by a virus or inflammation of the nerves. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord.
B. While acetylcholine breakdown is involved in other neurological conditions (such as myasthenia gravis), ALS primarily affects motor neurons and does not directly involve acetylcholine metabolism at the neuromuscular junction.
C. ALS does not typically involve significant inflammation or demyelination (which is more characteristic of conditions like multiple sclerosis). Therefore, reducing CNS inflammation is not a therapeutic target in ALS.
D. Riluzole, the medication prescribed for ALS, works by decreasing the release of glutamate, which is a neurotransmitter that can be toxic to nerve cells in high amounts. In ALS, excessive glutamate release is believed to contribute to motor neuron degeneration. By reducing glutamate release, riluzole may help protect motor neurons and slow the progression of the disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["1.5"]
Explanation
To administer the correct dose of desipramine, which is 150 mg, when the available tablet strength is 100 mg, the nurse would need to give 1.5 tablets.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While assessing pedal pulses is important for circulation and can indicate peripheral vascular status, it is not the highest priority compared to assessing renal function in a client with TTP.
B. Nutritional status is important for overall health and recovery but is not immediately critical compared to assessing for acute complications such as kidney damage in TTP.
C. TTP can lead to kidney damage due to the formation of clots in the small blood vessels of the kidneys. This can result in decreased urine output or even acute kidney injury (AKI). Monitoring urine output is crucial to assess renal function and detect early signs of kidney involvement.
D. TTP primarily affects the kidneys and blood coagulation system, leading to hemolysis and thrombocytopenia. Liver function is not typically a primary concern in TTP unless there are concurrent issues or complications.
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