The nurse observes increased eye blinking and lip smacking in a client who has a history of absence seizures.
The nurse is aware these symptoms indicate:
Automatisms associated with this type of seizure.
The client may have been exposed to a neurotoxin.
An electrolyte imbalance, likely hyponatremia.
A reversible adverse effect of anticonvulsant drugs.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Automatisms, such as eye blinking and lip smacking, are repetitive, involuntary movements commonly associated with absence seizures. They occur due to brief interruptions in consciousness during seizure activity without major motor involvement.
Choice B rationale
Neurotoxin exposure typically presents with symptoms like weakness, ataxia, and autonomic dysfunction. Increased eye blinking and lip smacking are not specific to neurotoxin-related neurological damage or poisoning.
Choice C rationale
Hyponatremia causes confusion, lethargy, and muscle cramps due to electrolyte disturbance affecting cellular function, but it does not cause specific automatisms like eye blinking or lip smacking in seizure-related conditions.
Choice D rationale
Reversible adverse effects of anticonvulsants often include sedation or cognitive slowing. Automatisms such as blinking and smacking are not typically linked to the pharmacological effects of anticonvulsants.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While bleeding could indicate trauma, EEG does not detect blood presence or volume but instead evaluates electrical brain activity indicative of neuronal function.
Choice B rationale
Cerebral oxygen intake assessment requires pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas analysis rather than EEG, which monitors electrical signals, not oxygenation status.
Choice C rationale
EEG identifies abnormal brain wave patterns suggesting ongoing seizure activity, even in sedated patients, aiding in targeted interventions and preventing potential complications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying pressure to prevent drainage could force cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) back into the cranial cavity, increasing infection risk and intracranial pressure, potentially worsening brain injury. CSF leakage requires non-obstructive handling.
Choice B rationale
Allowing fluid to drain onto gauze prevents build-up of intracranial pressure while assessing for halo sign, indicating CSF leakage. Yellow staining reflects glucose presence in CSF, confirming dura mater damage.
Choice C rationale
Intravenous fluids manage hypovolemia but are not prioritized for trauma patient brain injuries. Replacing lost CSF requires specific medical intervention rather than fluid volume adjustments alone.
Choice D rationale
Antibiotics treat infections but are not first priority for confirmed CSF leakage, which demands careful monitoring of drainage to prevent neurological damage. Post-intervention antibiotics may be necessary.
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