A child with cerebral palsy (CP) is taking baclofen, a relaxant. Which assessment finding indicates to the practical nurse (PN) that the drug is effective?
Increased appetite.
Sufficient urinary output.
Fewer temper outbursts.
Decreased muscular spasticity.
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Increased appetite is not a direct therapeutic indicator of baclofen efficacy. While improved comfort from muscle relaxation might indirectly support better intake, the drug does not possess orexigenic properties. Nutritional status is monitored in cerebral palsy patients, but it remains unrelated to the specific pharmacological mechanism of this skeletal muscle relaxant.
B. Sufficient urinary output is a vital assessment of general physiological and renal function, yet it is not the target of baclofen therapy. Baclofen acts primarily on the central nervous system to inhibit monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes at the spinal level. Urinary monitoring ensures adequate drug clearance, but output levels do not reflect the medication's clinical success.
C. Fewer temper outbursts might suggest a reduction in physical discomfort, but baclofen is not an antianxiety or antipsychotic medication. Cerebral palsy may involve behavioral challenges, but the primary goal of this therapy is physical rather than psychological. Behavioral changes are subjective and do not provide a scientific measure of the drug’s specific muscle-relaxing influence.
D. Decreased muscular spasticity is the primary therapeutic goal for a client with cerebral palsy receiving baclofen. This medication functions as a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogue, effectively reducing the transmission of excitatory signals that cause hypertonia and involuntary muscle contractions. A reduction in resistance to passive movement confirms that the drug is achieving its intended neuromuscular effect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe respiratory infections, especially in infants and young children. RSV is easily spread through contact with respiratory secretions from infected individuals, and can survive on surfaces for several hours. Therefore, it is important to avoid exposing other children to RSV, especially those who are under 6 months old or have a weakened immune system. The practical nurse (PN) should advise the mother not to take her infant to the birthday party to prevent the spread of RSV to other children. The PN can provide education on how to prevent the spread of RSV, such as washing hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The most important action for the PN to implement is to **assess the vital signs**. Saturation of a peripad within 15 minutes to 1 hour after delivery must be promptly reported. Data such as the amount of bleeding, the condition of the uterus, checking the maternal vital signs, and observing for signs of shock would play a vital role in the care of the patient with hemorrhage¹. Early recognition and treatment of PPH are critical to care management.
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