The nurse is caring for a client who is in status epilepticus. What medication should the nurse anticipate administering to halt the seizure immediately?
Intravenous phenobarbital.
Oral phenytoin.
Intravenous diazepam.
Oral lorazepam.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Intravenous phenobarbital can be used to treat status epilepticus, but it is not the first-line drug due to its slower onset of action compared to benzodiazepines. Rapid intervention is critical in status epilepticus, and phenobarbital is generally reserved for refractory cases.
Choice B rationale
Oral phenytoin is used for long-term control of seizures but is not effective for immediate cessation of status epilepticus. It takes longer to reach therapeutic levels and is not suitable for acute management.
Choice C rationale
Intravenous diazepam is a benzodiazepine with a rapid onset of action, making it effective in stopping seizures immediately. It enhances GABA activity, which has an inhibitory effect on neuronal firing, providing quick control of status epilepticus. This rapid effect is crucial for minimizing neuronal damage and other complications.
Choice D rationale
Oral lorazepam is effective for long-term management of seizures but is not appropriate for immediate treatment of status epilepticus. The oral route delays absorption and onset of action, making it unsuitable for acute seizure control. .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A pustule is an elevated, round lesion filled with pus, not serum. Pustules are commonly seen in acne or infections.
Choice B rationale
A macule is a flat, discolored area of the skin that is not elevated. Macules do not contain fluid and are often seen in conditions like freckles or flat moles.
Choice C rationale
A vesicle is an elevated, round lesion filled with clear serum. Vesicles can result from conditions such as chickenpox, herpes simplex, or dermatitis.
Choice D rationale
A cyst is an elevated, round lesion filled with semi-solid material or fluid. Cysts are typically deeper in the skin compared to vesicles.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A 5% deficit in body weight and increased caloric need alone do not warrant the initiation of parenteral nutrition (PN). PN is typically reserved for situations where oral or enteral feeding is not feasible or safe.
Choice B rationale
Significant risk of aspiration and decreased level of consciousness may necessitate alternative feeding methods, such as enteral feeding via a nasogastric or gastrostomy tube. PN is considered when enteral feeding is not possible.
Choice C rationale
Calorie deficit, muscle wasting, and low electrolyte levels indicate malnutrition, but PN is initiated when other feeding methods are inadequate or unsafe.
Choice D rationale
Inability to take in adequate oral food or fluids within 7 days is a clear indication for initiating PN. This ensures the patient receives essential nutrients and prevents further deterioration of their nutritional status.
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