The nurse assists a client with Parkinson's disease (PD) to ambulate in the hallway. The client appears to "freeze" and then carefully lifts one leg and steps forward. The client tells the nurse of pretending to step over a crack on the floor. How should the nurse respond?

Plan to assess the client's cognition after returning to his room.

Confirm that this is an effective technique to help with ambulation.

Reorient the client to his present location and circumstances.

Assist the client to a carpeted area where he can walk more easily.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   While assessing cognition is important for understanding the client’s overall functioning, the immediate issue of "freezing" during ambulation is more related to motor symptoms rather than cognitive impairment. "Freezing" in Parkinson's disease is a common motor symptom where the client feels as if their feet are glued to the floor.
B.   The technique of pretending to step over an imaginary object (like a crack) is known to be a helpful strategy for managing "freezing" in Parkinson's disease. This technique provides a cognitive cue that can help the client initiate movement and overcome the freezing episodes. Confirming that this is an effective technique acknowledges the client's strategy and supports their efforts to improve mobility.

C.   Reorienting the client to their location and circumstances can be helpful in situations where confusion or disorientation is an issue. However, in the case of "freezing" during ambulation, this response does not directly address the motor symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease. The problem here is more about movement initiation rather than orientation.
D.   Moving to a carpeted area might help with traction and reduce the risk of slipping, but it does not directly address the issue of "freezing" episodes. The freezing phenomenon in Parkinson's disease is related to motor control rather than the type of flooring. While providing a safer walking environment is beneficial, it doesn’t target the underlying motor symptoms as directly as addressing the client’s technique.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Placing protective padding between the client and bed rails is a safety measure to prevent injury during a seizure. This action helps protect the client from head or body trauma if they hit the bed rails or any surrounding surfaces during the seizure.
B. Providing privacy is important for maintaining the client’s dignity during a seizure, but it is not the most immediate concern. The primary focus during a seizure should be on ensuring the client’s safety and monitoring the event. Privacy can be considered once the immediate safety and medical needs are addressed.
C. Observing the client's behavior during the seizure is essential for documentation and subsequent medical evaluation. It helps in identifying the type, duration, and characteristics of the seizure, which is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. However, observation alone does not address immediate safety needs or interventions required during the seizure.
D. Recording the client's level of consciousness after the seizure is important for assessing the postictal state and the extent of recovery. This information is valuable for understanding the impact of the seizure and guiding further medical care. However, during the seizure, immediate actions should focus on ensuring safety and managing the seizure itself.

A. Vomiting B. Altered blood coagulation C. Visual disturbances D. Drowsiness E. Aphasia F. Ataxia

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","F"]

Explanation

A. Vomiting is not a common side effect of phenytoin but could occur in some patients. It’s more likely a
reaction to the medication rather than a frequent side effect.
B. Phenytoin can affect blood coagulation. It may interfere with vitamin K metabolism, which can alter coagulation pathways and increase the risk of bleeding or bruising. Monitoring for signs of bleeding or changes in clotting status is important, particularly in patients on long-term therapy.
C. Visual disturbances, including nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), double vision, or blurred vision, can occur with phenytoin use. This side effect is related to the medication’s impact on the nervous system.
D. Drowsiness is a common side effect of many antiepileptic drugs, including phenytoin. It can affect the client’s alertness and overall level of consciousness, making it important for the nurse to monitor and address any related safety concerns.
E. Aphasia, or difficulty with language and speech, is not a typical side effect of phenytoin. While phenytoin affects the central nervous system, aphasia is not commonly reported with its use.
F. Ataxia, or lack of coordination and unsteady movements, is a known side effect of phenytoin. This occurs due to its effects on the nervous system and can impair motor skills and coordination.

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The nurse assists a client with Parkinson's disease (PD) to ambulate in the hallway. The client appears to "freeze" and then carefully lifts one leg and steps forward. The client tells the nurse of pretending to step over a crack on the floor. How should the nurse respond?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse observes a client who begins to exhibit continuous jerking movements, is unable to speak, and is incontinent of urine during the event. Which action is most important for the nurse to take?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Exhibits The healthcare provider comes to the bedside following the seizure and prescribes phenytoin. The nurse administers the phenytoin as prescribed. Which possible side effect(s) of phenytoin should the nurse assess for after administration? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","F"]

Explanation

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