ATI LPN
Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank
Chapter 14 : Antiepileptic Drugs Questions
Question 1 of 5
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning for users of antiepileptic drugs. Based on this report, the nurse will monitor for which potential problems with this class of drugs?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FD
A) has required black box warnings on all antiepileptic drugs regarding the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Patients being treated with antiepileptic drugs for any indication need to be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, or any unusual changes in mood or behavior. The other options are incorrect.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is experiencing status epilepticus. The nurse prepares to give which drug of choice for the treatment of this condition?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Diazepam and lorazepam are considered by many to be the drugs of choice for status epilepticus. Other drugs that are used are listed in Table 14-3 and do not include the drugs listed in the other options.
Question 3 of 5
Phenytoin has a narrow therapeutic index. The nurse recognizes that this characteristic indicates which of these?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Having a narrow therapeutic index means that there is a small difference between safe and toxic drug levels. These drugs require monitoring of therapeutic plasma levels. The other options are incorrect.
Question 4 of 5
A patient has been taking an AED for several years as part of his treatment for seizures. His wife has called because he ran out of medication this morning and wonders if he can go without it for a few days until she has a chance to go to the drugstore. What is the nurse's best response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Abrupt discontinuation of antiepileptic drugs can lead to withdrawal seizures. The other options are incorrect. The nurse cannot change the dose or stop the medication without a prescriber's order.
Question 5 of 5
During a routine appointment, a patient with a history of seizures is found to have a phenytoin level of 18 mg/mL. What concern will the nurse have, if any?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Therapeutic drug levels for phenytoin are usually 10 to 20 mg/mL. The other options are incorrect.