A nurse is out in public when an individual suddenly falls to the ground with a generalized tonic- clonic (grand mal) seizure.
Which action should the nurse take first?
Place a stick in the person’s mouth to prevent biting of the tongue and call for assistance.
Completely record time of the person’s seizure and save for paramedics.
Restrain the limbs to prevent injury while providing as much privacy for the person as possible.
Loosen the individual’s necktie after placing the person in the recovery position.
The Correct Answer is D
This is because the recovery position helps maintain the airway and prevent aspiration, and loosening the necktie prevents breathing restriction.
The other choices are wrong because:
Choice A is wrong because placing a stick or any object in the person’s mouth can cause injury to the teeth, gums, tongue or jaw and obstruct the airway. The person cannot swallow or bite their tongue during a seizure.
Choice B is wrong because recording the time of the seizure is not the first priority. The first priority is to ensure the safety and comfort of the person.
Choice C is wrong because restraining the limbs can cause injury or fracture, increase agitation and prolong the seizure. The nurse should protect the person from injury by moving furniture away and padding the head.
Normal ranges for seizure duration are usually less than 5 minutes for generalized tonic-clonic seizures and less than 15 seconds for absence seizures. If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, or if the person has repeated seizures without regaining consciousness, it is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is the most appropriate action because it respects the client’s right to know and the family’s right to privacy.
It also allows the nurse to collaborate with the family and the healthcare provider to provide the best care for the client.
Choice B is wrong because it violates the client’s autonomy and dignity.
It also prevents the client from making informed decisions about end-of-life care.
Choice C is wrong because it denies the reality of the situation and does not address the client’s concerns.
It also may increase the client’s anxiety and frustration.
Choice D is wrong because it disregards the family’s wishes and cultural values.
It also may cause harm to the client and the family by breaking their trust and creating conflict.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is because offering fluids that the client likes and in small amounts can help increase the client’s fluid intake and prevent dehydration. According to, some other nursing measures that can help improve the client’s nutritional intake are:
- Encouraging favorite foods from home, when possible.
- Providing frequent oral hygiene.
- Providing a pleasant environment during mealtime.
- Providing assistance with eating, if needed.
Choice A is wrong because placing a freshwater pitcher on the bedside table may not be enough to motivate the client to drink more fluids, especially if the client does not like plain water or has difficulty reaching for the pitcher.
Choice C is wrong because explaining the problems of inadequate intake may not be effective in changing the client’s behavior, and may even cause anxiety or resentment.
Choice D is wrong because stressing the importance of drinking fluids may also be ineffective or counterproductive, as it may sound like nagging or lecturing to the client.
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