FREE NCS Clinical Decision-Making Questions and Answers
Which diagnostic tool is most useful for differentiating between a primary brain tumor and a metastatic brain lesion?
MRI with contrast is particularly effective in distinguishing between primary and metastatic brain lesions due to its high resolution and ability to highlight differences in tissue characteristics. While CT scans, EEGs, and PET scans can be useful, MRI with contrast provides detailed images crucial for accurate differentiation.
What is the best approach for managing a patient with chronic migraine who has not responded to first-line pharmacological treatments?
For patients who do not respond to first-line treatments for chronic migraines, considering second-line options like CGRP inhibitors is a more appropriate approach than increasing dosages of existing medications or pursuing surgical options, which are not typically first-line treatments.
When assessing a patient with suspected multiple sclerosis (MS), which of the following findings would be most indicative of an acute exacerbation?
An acute exacerbation of MS often involves a sudden worsening of neurological symptoms, such as increased spasticity or new onset of symptoms. Persistent fever and stable visual acuity or mood changes are less directly indicative of an exacerbation.
In the context of clinical decision-making for a patient with Parkinson’s disease, which of the following interventions would most likely be recommended to address motor fluctuations?
Motor fluctuations in Parkinson’s disease are often managed by adjusting medication regimens. Adding or optimizing dopamine agonist therapy can help stabilize motor symptoms, whereas increasing physical therapy, changing diet, or reducing levodopa might not directly address the motor fluctuations.
What is the primary goal of using clinical decision-making frameworks in neurologic practice?
Clinical decision-making frameworks are designed to assist clinicians in making well-informed decisions that are specific to each patient's unique condition and needs. This approach helps ensure that treatments are evidence-based and personalized rather than one-size-fits-all.