A patient is stuporous but reacts by withdrawing from painful stimuli. Which term is most appropriate for this patient?

Semicomatose

Somnolent

Lethargic

Comatose

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Semicomatose:

This term suggests a state between consciousness and coma. A patient who is semicomatose may exhibit some level of responsiveness but is typically unresponsive or only responds to intense stimuli.

B. Somnolent:

Somnolence refers to a state of drowsiness or sleepiness. A somnolent patient may appear sleepy, have difficulty staying awake, and may be slow to respond to stimuli. However, the withdrawal from painful stimuli described in the scenario suggests a higher level of responsiveness than what would typically be expected in a somnolent state.

C. Lethargic:

Lethargy describes a state of reduced alertness or responsiveness. A lethargic patient may appear drowsy, sluggish, and have diminished responses to stimuli. The description of the patient as stuporous (having a decreased level of consciousness) but still reacting by withdrawing from painful stimuli aligns with the characteristics of lethargy.

D. Comatose:

Coma refers to a state of profound unconsciousness where the patient is unresponsive to all stimuli, including painful stimuli. A comatose patient does not demonstrate any purposeful movement or response to stimuli. Since the patient in the scenario exhibits some response to painful stimuli by withdrawing, they do not meet the criteria for being comatose.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Hyperglycemia:

Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels. While certain medications can affect glucose metabolism and potentially lead to hyperglycemia as a side effect, this is not typically associated with hydantoin therapy for seizure disorder. Therefore, it is less likely for the patient to experience hyperglycemia as a direct result of taking hydantoin medication.

B. Hunger:

Hunger is not a common side effect of hydantoin therapy for seizure disorder. While some medications may affect appetite or cause changes in eating habits, hunger is not a typical side effect of hydantoin medications such as phenytoin.

C. Hypoglycemia:

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels, which can lead to symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, sweating, and weakness. Hydantoin medications, particularly phenytoin, can affect glucose metabolism and increase the risk of hypoglycemia, especially in patients who already have diabetes or are prone to low blood sugar. Therefore, it is important for patients taking hydantoin therapy to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia.

D. Pupil dilation:

Pupil dilation, or mydriasis, is not a common side effect of hydantoin therapy for seizure disorder. While certain medications may affect pupil size, this is not typically associated with hydantoin medications such as phenytoin.

A. Lie flat. B. Lie on left side. C. Stay in semi-Fowler position. D. Ambulate in the room with assistance.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Lie flat:

This option involves instructing the patient to lie flat on their back without elevating their head. Lying flat helps to maintain consistent pressure in the spinal canal, reducing the likelihood of CSF leakage from the puncture site. This position is commonly recommended after a lumbar puncture to prevent or minimize the occurrence of post-lumbar puncture headaches (PLPH).

B. Lie on left side:

This option involves instructing the patient to lie on their left side. While lying on the left side may provide some relief by reducing pressure on the lumbar puncture site, it is not typically recommended immediately after the procedure to prevent PLPH. Lying flat is generally preferred to minimize changes in CSF pressure and reduce the risk of headache.

C. Stay in semi-Fowler position:

The semi-Fowler position involves elevating the head of the bed at a 30-45 degree angle. This position is not typically recommended immediately after a lumbar puncture because it may increase CSF leakage and pressure changes, potentially exacerbating the risk of developing a headache.

D. Ambulate in the room with assistance:

Ambulating shortly after a lumbar puncture is not typically recommended as it may increase the risk of developing a headache. Movement and changes in posture can exacerbate CSF leakage and pressure changes at the puncture site, leading to the development of post-lumbar puncture headaches.

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A patient is stuporous but reacts by withdrawing from painful stimuli. Which term is most appropriate for this patient?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is preparing discharge instructions for a patient with a history of diabetes who has just been diagnosed with seizure disorder. The patient has been prescribed hydantoin therapy. What will the patient most likely experience?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Which position should a nurse instruct a patient to assume after a lumbar puncture to prevent a headache?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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