NUR 114-Exam2 Seizures

This anticonvulsant is a benzodiazepine used for status epilepticus, Available in suppository, IV. If IV ordered give slowly 3-5 min., Can be addictive, also used for muscle spasms ex: cerebral palsy

This anticonvulsant is not a first line treatment, it's typically used when nothing else works (Refractory Severe Epilepsy). It raises drug levels of other drugs and it's effects are seen in the liver, LFT's may need to be run. It is given as an oral suspension.

Stopping seizure meds is ok

Which action will the nurse take when evaluating a pt. who is taking phenytoin (Dilantin) for adverse effects of the medication?

This anticonvulsant may be used as an add on med, it's best for little seizures. May cause sedation, and in some cases cause children to act out.

A pt. taking an anticonvulsant develops a rash, what do you do?

This anticonvulsant is prescribed for absence seizures, SE include S-J syn and Depression

Which of these prescribed interventions will the nurse implement first for a hospitalized pt. who is experiencing continuous
tonic-clonic seizures?

This newer anti-convulsant is used for all seizure types, better tolerated than most, less likely to cause drowsiness/dizziness, SE include S-J syndrome

Remember what with Tegretol-check all that apply

Treatment for Status Epilepticus-check all that apply

Adolescents may have a tendency to stop this med w/o telling their parents or Dr.'s b/c this drug has a tendency to cause wt. gain.

During a tonic-clonic sz-check all that apply

During a sz it is important to keep track of the seizure activity and ?

It is important to teach a pt. to avoid what substance before an EEG?

Never mix Phenobarbital with

What beverage should be avoided in a pt taking seizure medication?

This anticonvulsant is used mostly for generalized tonic-clonic sz, Signs of toxicity includes double vision (diplopia), nystagmus (cross eyes), gingival hyperplasia (gums overgrowing teeth). Report signs of toxicity, draw levels, dose may need to be held or lowered, this drug is known to build up in system, oral susp not recommended

Why do children on long-term seizure medicine need to be closely monitored?

This anticonvulsant is used for generalized seizures, it can become very toxic and affect the liver- LFT's need to be done, used freq, SE-Weight gain, monitor closely for liver failure and bone marrow failure-main sign will be pain, Monitor CBC, lft's, blood levels need to be drawn q 6-12mo, this drug interferes w/metabolism of othe antiseizure meds, d/t risk of liver failure don't give to children younger than 2

A pt found in a tonic-clonic seizure reports afterward that the seizure was preceded by numbness and tingling of the arm. The nurse knows that this finding indicates what type of seizure?

This benzo is not good for everyday seizure maintenance, however in status epilepticus it is preferred d/t rapid onset and long half-life. It can be given q4, caution should be taken when admin IV, Cardiac arrest can occur with rapid IV admin, Drowsiness and Sedation are most common SE

Pt.s who take seizure medication should take caution when -check all that apply

This anticonvulsant may be prescribed for chronic pain. It is safer, less likely to react w/other meds, and can be given bid. It also is less sedating/drowsy than other anticonvulsants.

This anticonvulsant is a barbituate, addictive, causes lots of sedation, Overdose is possible, monitor blood levels as needed, prescribed for kids

Always, always, always!!!!! Shake these meds

Common SE of Seizure Meds include-check all that apply

Which intervention is most appropriate when a pt seizing turns blue or cyanotic?

An elementary teacher who has just been diagnosed w/epilepsy after having a generalized tonic-clonic seizure tells the nurse, "I cannot teach anymore, it will be too upsetting if I have a seizure at work." Which response by the nurse is best?

Changing a brand name seizure med to a generic is no big deal.

T/F Pt must take meds at the same time each day to keep blood levels up

Safety is a minor concern during a seizure.

After suffering a seizure a pt can drive home as long as they feel better.

Status epilepticus is dangerous for what reasons? check all that apply

When preparing to admit a pt. who has been treated for status epilepticus in the ED, which equipment should the nurse have available in the room? -check all that apply

The nurse witnesses a pt. w/a seizure disorder as the pt. suddenly jerks the arms and legs, falls to the floor, and regains consciousness immediately. It will be most important for the nurse to

Is is safer for a pt with a seizure disorder to take baths or shower?

A pt. has a tonic-clonic seizure while the nurse is in the pt.'s room. Which action should the nurse take?

When the home health care nurse is planning care for a pt with a seizure disorder, which nursing action can be delegated to an LPN/LVN?

This anticonvulsant is a benzodiazepine, similar to Valium, SE Drowsiness, take w/caution-highly addictive

Common cause in elderly who develop seizures

Seizure triggers-check all that apply

When a pt has multiple seizures

Preferred drug for Status Epilepticus