A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a tonic-clonic seizure. Which of the following action should the nurse take?
Insert an oral airway into the client’s mouth
Measure the duration of the seizure.
Lower the side rails of the bed when the seizure begins.
Restrain the client's arms and legs to prevent injury.
None
None
The Correct Answer is B
A. Attempting to force an object into the oral cavity during muscle contraction causes dental trauma or jaw fractures. It significantly increases the risk of aspiration if the object breaks or triggers a gag reflex. Modern clinical guidelines strictly prohibit the insertion of any device into the mouth during active convulsions. Airway patency is maintained by placing the client in a lateral position.
B. Tracking the exact duration of the ictal phase is a critical nursing responsibility for clinical assessment. This data determines the necessity for emergency benzodiazepines if the event lasts longer than 5 minutes. Precise timing helps differentiate between a self-limiting seizure and dangerous status epilepticus. The nurse must record the start and end times to guide medical intervention.
C. Lowering the side rails during a seizure increases the risk of the client falling from the height of the bed. Standard seizure precautions require that side rails remain raised and should be padded to prevent blunt force trauma. Ensuring the patient stays within the safe boundaries of the bed is a primary safety goal.
D. Physical restraints can cause severe musculoskeletal injuries such as fractures or dislocations during the forceful involuntary movements of the clonic phase. Restricting the extremities creates unnecessary resistance against powerful muscle contractions. The nurse should clear the immediate area of hard objects rather than holding the client down.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Administer aspirin for pain: Aspirin is an anticoagulant and should be avoided in clients receiving other anticoagulant therapy, especially in the context of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Using aspirin could increase the risk of bleeding and complications. Therefore, it is not appropriate for pain management in this situation.
B) Initiate bed rest: While rest may be indicated for comfort and to reduce the risk of further clot formation, complete bed rest is generally not recommended in the management of DVT unless specifically directed by the healthcare provider. Early ambulation and the use of compression devices or stockings are typically encouraged to promote circulation and reduce the risk of complications, such as pulmonary embolism.
C) Massage the affected extremity every 4 hr: Massaging the affected extremity is contraindicated in a client with DVT, as it can dislodge the clot and increase the risk of a pulmonary embolism or other complications. It is important to avoid any direct manipulation of the affected limb to prevent causing harm.
D) Apply an ice pack to the affected extremity for 20 min every 2 hr: Applying an ice pack is
an appropriate intervention for reducing swelling and providing comfort in the case of a DVT. The cold therapy helps to constrict blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. This intervention should be done carefully to avoid skin damage, and the nurse should monitor the skin for signs of injury.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) "Individuals who have this disorder have a flat affect.": A flat affect, which refers to a lack of emotional expression, is more characteristic of conditions like depression or schizophrenia rather than delirium. Delirium typically involves fluctuating levels of consciousness, confusion, and altered attention, but a flat affect is not a defining feature.
B) "This disorder is characterized by a sudden onset of mental confusion.": This statement is correct. Delirium is characterized by a rapid onset of symptoms, including confusion, disorientation, and changes in cognition. The acute nature of delirium distinguishes it from other conditions like dementia, which develops gradually over time.
C) "Individuals who have this disorder speak at a slow pace.": While some individuals with delirium may speak slowly due to confusion or disorientation, this is not a defining characteristic of the disorder. Delirium can cause a variety of speech patterns, including rambling, incoherence, or even rapid speech depending on the individual’s cognitive state.
D) "This disorder is not reversible.": This statement is incorrect. Delirium is typically reversible if the underlying cause (such as infection, dehydration, or medication side effects) is identified and treated. Unlike progressive disorders like dementia, delirium can often be resolved with appropriate medical intervention.
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