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

Phenytoin is incompatible with dextrose-containing solutions and must be administered with and flushed using normal saline only.

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

Todd's paralysis — transient focal weakness lasting minutes to hours after a seizure — strongly suggests preceding focal motor or tonic-clonic seizure activity.

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

Seizures in JME are most commonly triggered by sleep deprivation and occur characteristically in the morning upon awakening.

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

Valproic acid carries the highest teratogenic risk among antiseizure medications, with major congenital malformations and neurodevelopmental effects in offspring.

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

Padded side rails, suction at bedside, and supplemental oxygen are components of standard seizure precautions to maintain safety and airway.

CNRN Test Practice Test

CNRN Test Practice Test

CNRN Seizure Disorders and Epilepsy Management 3