A nurse is collecting data from a client who has Parkinson's disease and is experiencing bradykinesia. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. Placing padding around or under the patient's head

This is a helpful instruction to include. Placing padding around or under the patient's head can help prevent injury during a seizure by cushioning the head against impact with the ground.

B. Positioning the patient on the side once the relaxation stage is entered to allow oral secretions to drain

This is a correct instruction. Positioning the patient on their side (recovery position) can help prevent aspiration if vomiting occurs during or after the seizure. It also helps clear oral secretions and maintain a clear airway.

C. Having the necessary equipment and/or personnel in case the patient doesn't spontaneously breathe when the seizure is over

This is an important instruction. It is crucial to have emergency equipment (such as oxygen and suction) readily available and to be prepared to provide respiratory support if the patient does not spontaneously breathe after the seizure.

D. Inserting a tongue depressor in the patient's mouth

This is an incorrect instruction. It is not recommended to insert anything into the patient's mouth during a seizure as it can cause injury to the teeth, gums, or airway. Additionally, it is a common misconception that tongue swallowing occurs during seizures, which is rare.

E. Noting the time the seizure started

This is a critical instruction. Noting the time the seizure started helps healthcare providers assess the duration of the seizure and determine if medical intervention is necessary. It also helps monitor the patient's recovery and response to treatment.

F. Holding the patient down to prevent injury

This is an incorrect instruction. Holding the patient down during a seizure can cause injury to both the patient and the person restraining them. It is important to create a safe environment by removing hazards and guiding the patient away from dangerous objects or situations, but holding them down is not appropriate.

A. Pupil response:

Pupil response refers to the reaction of the pupils to light stimulus. The pupils should normally constrict when exposed to bright light and dilate in dim light. Changes in pupil size or reactivity can indicate alterations in neurological function. For example, unequal or non-reactive pupils (anisocoria or fixed pupils) can be indicative of dysfunction in the cranial nerves or brainstem. However, while pupil response is an important aspect of neurological assessment, it may not always be the earliest indicator of cerebral status changes.

B. Deep tendon reflexes:

Deep tendon reflexes are involuntary muscle contractions in response to stretching of a muscle tendon. These reflexes are assessed by tapping the tendon with a reflex hammer, eliciting a rapid and brief muscle contraction. Changes in deep tendon reflexes can provide information about the integrity of the peripheral nervous system and spinal cord. However, alterations in deep tendon reflexes may occur secondary to changes in cerebral function and are typically assessed along with other neurological signs.

C. Muscle strength:

Muscle strength refers to the force generated by muscles during voluntary movement. It is typically assessed by asking the client to perform specific movements against resistance or by testing the strength of individual muscle groups using standardized scales (e.g., Medical Research Council scale). Changes in muscle strength can occur due to neurological or musculoskeletal conditions. While weakness or paralysis can result from lesions affecting the upper motor neurons (e.g., strokes or spinal cord injuries), alterations in muscle strength may not always be the earliest indicator of cerebral status changes.

D. Level of consciousness:

The level of consciousness refers to the degree of awareness and alertness exhibited by the client. It is assessed by evaluating the client's responsiveness, orientation, and ability to follow commands. Changes in the level of consciousness, such as confusion, lethargy, stupor, or coma, can indicate alterations in cerebral function and are often the earliest indicators of neurological dysfunction. Assessing the level of consciousness is a critical component of neurological examination and helps guide further assessment and management of clients with suspected brain tumors or other neurological conditions.