CNRN Seizure Disorders and Epilepsy Management 3

Question 1

Before administering IV phenytoin, the nurse must flush the IV line with:

Accepted Answer

Normal saline (0.9% NaCl)

Answer

Dextrose 5% in water (D5W)

Answer

Lactated Ringer's solution

Answer

Sterile water

Question 2

Which postictal finding is highly suggestive that a patient just experienced a tonic-clonic seizure rather than a syncopal episode?

Accepted Answer

Todd's paralysis (transient focal weakness)

Answer

Transient hypotension

Answer

Brief loss of consciousness

Answer

Pallor

Question 3

A patient with a new diagnosis of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) asks about seizure triggers. The nurse teaches that the most common trigger is:

Accepted Answer

Sleep deprivation, particularly upon awakening

Answer

Bright flashing lights alone

Answer

High-fat diet

Answer

Cold exposure

Question 4

Which antiseizure medication is absolutely contraindicated in women of childbearing age with epilepsy due to the highest teratogenic risk?

Accepted Answer

Valproic acid (valproate)

Answer

Lamotrigine

Answer

Levetiracetam

Answer

Carbamazepine

Question 5

The nurse is preparing seizure precautions for a patient admitted with new-onset seizures. Which intervention is included in standard seizure precautions?

Accepted Answer

Keep padded side rails raised and suction at bedside

Answer

Apply soft wrist restraints

Answer

Remove the IV access to prevent self-injury

Answer

Keep room lights bright to detect aura

Question 6

A patient with epilepsy is prescribed a ketogenic diet. The nurse understands this diet works primarily by:

Accepted Answer

Producing ketone bodies that have antiseizure effects

Answer

Increasing serotonin levels

Answer

Reducing sodium intake to lower neural excitability

Answer

Increasing GABA synthesis through protein restriction