A nurse is teaching a group of clients who have different types of seizures about the appropriate use of anticonvulsants. Which of the following statements by the clients indicate a need for further teaching? (Select all that apply)

This statement indicates a need for further teaching because phenytoin and phenobarbital are not effective for treating absence seizures, which are a type of generalized onset seizure that cause brief lapses in awareness, such as blank staring¹. Phenytoin and phenobarbital are narrow-spectrum anticonvulsants that are mainly used for focal seizures, which begin in one area of the brain². Taking these medications for absence seizures may worsen the condition or cause adverse effects.

The other statements are correct and do not indicate a need for further teaching. 

Choice A is correct because carbamazepine and valproic acid are both effective for treating partial seizures, which are a type of focal seizure that may or may not affect awareness².

 Choice B is correct because phenobarbital and lamotrigine are both effective for treating generalized tonic-clonic seizures, which are a type of generalized onset seizure that cause muscle stiffness and jerking movements². 

Choice D is correct because valproic acid and levetiracetam are both effective for treating myoclonic seizures, which are a type of generalized onset seizure that cause brief jerking movements². Choice E is correct because lamotrigine and topiramate are both effective for treating atonic seizures, which are a type of generalized onset seizure that cause sudden loss of muscle tone².