A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and a new prescription for riluzole. The nurse understands that this medication works in which of the following ways?
It suppresses the virus which is responsible for causing the inflammation of the nerve.
It prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine to increase the amount available at the neuromuscular junction.
It reduces inflammation in the CNS to prevent further demyelination of nerves in the central nervous system.
It slows the progression of the disease by decreasing the release of glutamate in the brain.
The Correct Answer is D
A. ALS is not caused by a virus or inflammation of the nerves. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord.
B. While acetylcholine breakdown is involved in other neurological conditions (such as myasthenia gravis), ALS primarily affects motor neurons and does not directly involve acetylcholine metabolism at the neuromuscular junction.
C. ALS does not typically involve significant inflammation or demyelination (which is more characteristic of conditions like multiple sclerosis). Therefore, reducing CNS inflammation is not a therapeutic target in ALS.
D. Riluzole, the medication prescribed for ALS, works by decreasing the release of glutamate, which is a neurotransmitter that can be toxic to nerve cells in high amounts. In ALS, excessive glutamate release is believed to contribute to motor neuron degeneration. By reducing glutamate release, riluzole may help protect motor neurons and slow the progression of the disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. By surrounding themselves with familiar items, such as photos, favorite objects, or comforting decor from their previous home, the resident can feel more at ease and connected to their past. This approach helps in creating a more homelike atmosphere and reducing feelings of disorientation and stress associated with the move.
B. Isolating the resident and encouraging avoidance of social interactions can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, isolation, and anxiety. Avoiding social interactions may prolong feelings of stress and hinder adaptation to the new living situation.
C. While it's important to manage the frequency and timing of visits to ensure the resident is not overwhelmed, outright restricting visitation hours can be counterproductive. Restricting visitation could increase feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are already common in new residents of long-term care facilities.
D. Using sedative medications should be reserved for situations where non-pharmacological interventions have been unsuccessful and the resident's anxiety or distress is severe and persistent. Sedatives can have side effects, especially in older adults, and should not be the first-line approach for managing relocation stress syndrome.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Medicare does cover individuals under 65 years old who have end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and meet certain criteria.
B. There are programs that allow individuals with both Medicare and low income to qualify for Medicaid, which can help cover additional healthcare costs that Medicare may not fully cover.
C. While Medicare does provide significant coverage for healthcare services, it is not entirely free of out- of-pocket costs. Medicare Part A typically covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care services with no premiums for most people.
D. Medicare is indeed federally-funded health insurance primarily for individuals aged 65 and older. It also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities and those with ESRD.
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