Neurology questions
9 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
Anticonvulsants (antiepileptic drugs)
Which IV solution is compatible with phenytoin?
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Answer B: 0.9% sodium chloride Phenytoin precipitates in dextrose solutions; it is mixed and flushed with normal saline only.
Anticonvulsants (antiepileptic drugs)
A patient taking phenytoin has nystagmus, unsteady gait and slurred speech. What does the nurse suspect?
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Answer D: Phenytoin toxicity Nystagmus and ataxia are classic signs of high phenytoin levels. Check the level and notify the provider.
Anticonvulsants (antiepileptic drugs)
What teaching point applies to every antiepileptic drug?
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Answer C: Do not stop it suddenly Abrupt withdrawal can trigger seizures, including status epilepticus.
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Why is carbidopa combined with levodopa?
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Answer A: To prevent levodopa from being broken down outside the brain Carbidopa blocks peripheral conversion of levodopa, so more reaches the brain and peripheral side effects such as nausea decrease.
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Which antiemetic should be avoided in a patient with Parkinson disease?
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Answer C: Metoclopramide Metoclopramide blocks dopamine receptors and can worsen Parkinson symptoms.
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A patient taking carbidopa-levodopa notices dark urine. What should the nurse explain?
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Answer B: This is a harmless effect of the drug Levodopa metabolites can darken urine and sweat; this is harmless.
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A family asks if donepezil will cure their father's Alzheimer disease. What is the best response?
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Answer A: It may slow the worsening of symptoms but does not cure the disease Cholinesterase inhibitors provide modest symptomatic benefit; they do not stop the disease.
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Which assessment is important before giving donepezil?
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Answer D: Heart rate Increased cholinergic activity can cause bradycardia and syncope.
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Which drug for Alzheimer disease works by blocking NMDA receptors?
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Answer A: Memantine Memantine is an NMDA receptor antagonist. The others are cholinesterase inhibitors.