A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with Trigeminal neuralgia who is suddenly experiencing severe pain on the left side of the face. The nurse identifies which classification of medications is most effective in treating this type of pain?
Analgesics
Antibiotics
Anticonvulsants
Antihistamines
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Analgesics, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may provide some relief for mild pain but are generally not effective for the severe, neuropathic pain associated with Trigeminal neuralgia. This condition requires medications that specifically target nerve pain.
Choice B reason:
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and are not effective for treating neuropathic pain conditions like Trigeminal neuralgia. This type of pain is not caused by an infection, so antibiotics would not be appropriate.
Choice C reason:
Anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine and gabapentin, are the most effective medications for treating Trigeminal neuralgia. These drugs help stabilize nerve activity and reduce the frequency and intensity of pain episodes. They are considered the first-line treatment for this condition.
Choice D reason:
Antihistamines are used to treat allergic reactions and are not effective for neuropathic pain. They do not have the properties needed to manage the severe pain associated with Trigeminal neuralgia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Chewing the tablet before swallowing is not the correct method of administration for Sumatriptan (Imitrex) tablets. These tablets are designed to be swallowed whole. Chewing them could affect the medication’s efficacy and absorption.
Choice B reason:
“If you experience chest pain, call your physician immediately.” This instruction is crucial because Sumatriptan can cause serious cardiovascular side effects, including chest pain, which may indicate a heart attack or other serious condition. Clients need to be aware of this potential side effect and seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
Choice C reason:
Taking Sumatriptan daily to prevent headaches is incorrect. Sumatriptan is used to treat acute migraine attacks and is not intended for daily use as a preventive medication. Using it daily could lead to medication overuse headaches and other adverse effects.
Choice D reason:
“Repeat dose in 1 hour for unrelieved headache” is partially correct but incomplete. The correct instruction is to repeat the dose after 2 hours if the headache is not relieved, up to a maximum of two doses in 24 hours. Clients should follow the specific dosing instructions provided by their healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Encouraging the client to use ice therapy to alleviate muscle stiffness is not the best approach for managing multiple sclerosis (MS). While ice therapy can provide temporary relief for muscle stiffness, it does not address the need to increase venous return, prevent stiffness, or maintain muscle strength and endurance. Gentle stretching exercises are more effective for these goals.
Choice B reason:
Administering interferon is a common treatment for MS to help reduce the frequency and severity of relapses. However, it does not directly address the need to increase venous return, prevent stiffness, or maintain muscle strength and endurance. Exercise and physical therapy are more appropriate for these specific goals.
Choice C reason:
Administering corticosteroids is used to manage acute exacerbations of MS by reducing inflammation. While corticosteroids can help manage symptoms during a flare-up, they do not directly contribute to increasing venous return, preventing stiffness, or maintaining muscle strength and endurance. Regular exercise is more effective for these purposes.
Choice D reason:
Encouraging the client to perform gentle stretching exercises daily is the most appropriate action. Stretching exercises help increase venous return, prevent stiffness, and maintain muscle strength and endurance. Regular physical activity is essential for managing MS symptoms and improving overall function and quality of life.
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