The nurse is performing an admission assessment on a stable patient admitted after a motor vehicle accident.
The patient reports having bad pain.
What will the nurse do first?

Choice A rationale

Anticonvulsant medications are not taken on an as-needed basis. They require consistent dosing to maintain therapeutic levels and prevent seizure activity effectively.

Choice B rationale

The goal of anticonvulsant therapy is not just temporary seizure control but long-term management. Medications are continued even after achieving seizure-free status to prevent recurrence.

Choice C rationale

While some patients might achieve control within a few years, there is no standard duration for stopping anticonvulsants. Treatment duration varies based on individual response and risk of recurrence.

Choice D rationale

Anticonvulsant medications are typically taken for a lifetime to manage epilepsy. Long-term therapy is crucial for maintaining seizure control and preventing breakthrough seizures.

Choice A rationale

While maintaining patient confidentiality is crucial, it does not address the immediate medical needs of the patient with chronic renal failure. The primary concern should be addressing the health implications of their condition and ensuring proper care coordination.

Choice B rationale

Administering medications ordered immediately is essential, but it is not the first priority without knowing the patient's current status and medical history. The nurse needs to ensure that the medications prescribed are appropriate for a patient with chronic renal failure.

Choice C rationale

Providing teaching about chronic renal failure is important for long-term management but is not the first priority upon admission. Immediate medical needs and communication with the care team take precedence in this acute care setting.

Choice D rationale

Calling the admitting physician immediately is the first priority. The primary care provider needs to be aware of the patient's diagnosis of chronic renal failure to adjust treatment plans accordingly. Immediate communication ensures that all healthcare professionals are on the same page regarding the patient's care. .