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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Dopamine is primarily associated with other neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease, not Alzheimer's disease. In Alzheimer's disease, the focus is on changes related to beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles rather than alterations in dopamine levels.
B. Glial cells, including astrocytes and microglia, play a role in the brain's immune response and support of neurons. In Alzheimer's disease, there is evidence of increased activation and proliferation of glial cells in response to neuroinflammation and the presence of beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. This reactive gliosis is a secondary response to the underlying pathology.
C. Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter involved in various brain functions, including memory and learning. In Alzheimer's disease, there is evidence of dysregulation in glutamate metabolism and

signaling pathways. This dysregulation can lead to excitotoxicity, which contributes to neuronal damage and cell death seen in the disease.
D. Neurofibrillary tangles are one of the hallmark pathological features of Alzheimer's disease. These tangles are aggregates of hyperphosphorylated tau protein that accumulate inside neurons, disrupting their normal functioning and eventually leading to cell death. Neurofibrillary tangles, along with beta- amyloid plaques, contribute to the progressive cognitive decline observed in Alzheimer's disease.

A. Sodium 149 mEq/L B. Blood pressure 90/53 mmHg C. Client is incontinent of urine D. Potassium 53 mEq/L

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Hypernatremia can indicate dehydration or other electrolyte imbalances. Furosemide can further affect electrolyte balance, especially sodium and potassium. However, this sodium level is only slightly elevated and may not necessarily require immediate action regarding furosemide administration.
B. Furosemide is a diuretic that can further decrease blood pressure due to its effects on fluid volume reduction. Administering it to a patient with already low blood pressure could potentially lead to significant hypotension and compromise perfusion to vital organs.
C. While incontinence itself may not directly contraindicate furosemide administration, it could indicate underlying issues such as bladder dysfunction or fluid overload that need further evaluation. This finding alone would not necessarily require holding the medication, but it warrants further assessment and consideration in the clinical context.
D. Normal serum potassium levels typically range from 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. A level of 5.3 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia (elevated potassium). While this potassium level is mildly elevated, it would not be a reason on its own to hold furosemide. Monitoring potassium levels closely and potentially adjusting potassium

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which pathophysiologic change is found in the brain tissue of people who have Alzheimer's disease?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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