Which type of epileptic seizure is characterized by a sudden lapse of consciousness for 5 to 30 seconds?

Choice A rationale: While the temperature is important in assessing health, it isn't the most concerning finding in this scenario compared to others.

Choice B rationale: A thready pulse (a weak, barely palpable pulse) could indicate a critical drop in blood pressure and cardiac output, which is a significant concern.

Choice C rationale: While indicating a possible issue with hydration, it's not as immediately concerning as other findings in this context.

Choice D rationale: Recently lost his job - While this has social and economic implications, it's not an immediate physiological concern in this clinical scenario.

Choice E rationale: While significant in his overall health, it's not a direct finding from the current assessment that immediately raises concern.

Choice A rationale: Rotating the neck to one side while observing the eyes moving to the opposite side is a procedure for testing for oculocephalic reflex or doll's eye

phenomenon, which indicates brainstem function.

Choice B rationale: This is the correct answer. Kernig's sign is a clinical sign that indicates meningitis, which is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. To test for Kernig's sign, the nurse should flex the patient's hip to 90 degrees and then attempt to extend the knee. A positive Kernig's sign is when the patient

experiences pain in the lower back or hamstring, resists knee extension, or involuntarily flexes the opposite leg.

Choice C rationale: Stroking the lateral aspect of the sole of the patient's foot and observing for dorsiflexion of the big toe is a procedure for testing for Babinski's sign, which indicates upper motor neuron lesion or damage.

Choice D rationale: Passively flexing the patient's neck forward and observing for hip and knee flexion is a procedure for testing for Brudzinski's sign, which also indicates meningitis.