The nursing instructor asks the student nurse to explain the action of sumatriptan.
What is the student's best response?

Choice A rationale

Clonic-tonic muscle contraction is related to convulsions and seizures but does not accurately define epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Choice B rationale

Epilepsy involves abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, not in the muscles. Muscle contractions are a symptom of seizures, not the cause of epilepsy.

Choice C rationale

Epilepsy is not a single disease; it encompasses various conditions characterized by recurrent seizures. It is a spectrum of disorders with different causes and manifestations.

Choice D rationale

This choice accurately describes epilepsy as characterized by sudden, recurrent, and transient disturbances in brain function due to abnormal electrical discharges in the brain.

Choice A rationale

Administering a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is not a priority action for a patient who has received a narcotic analgesic. The priority should be to ensure the patient’s safety and prevent falls, which can occur due to the sedative effects of narcotics.

Choice B rationale

Putting side rails up and placing the bed in the lowest position is essential for patient safety. Narcotics can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination, increasing the risk of falls. Ensuring the bed is in the lowest position and side rails are up helps prevent injury if the patient tries to get up.

Choice C rationale

Encouraging fluids is beneficial for many patients, but it is not the priority action when a patient has received a narcotic analgesic. Hydration is important but secondary to ensuring the patient’s immediate safety.

Choice D rationale

Creating a restful, dark environment may help the patient rest, but it does not directly address the immediate safety needs of a patient who has received a narcotic analgesic. The focus should be on preventing falls and injury.