Nursing care for a patient who is experiencing a convulsive seizure includes all of the following except:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because inserting a mouth gag during a convulsive seizure can obstruct the airway and pose a choking hazard. Step-by-step rationale: A: Loosening clothing helps improve ventilation. C: Positioning on the side with head flexed forward prevents aspiration. D: Providing privacy is important for patient dignity and confidentiality. B is incorrect as it can be harmful.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Placing the patient on the right side with support to the back, pillows for body alignment, hips slightly flexed, and a washcloth placed so that fingers are slightly curled is most appropriate for a patient with right-sided paralysis following a stroke. This position helps prevent contractures by maintaining proper alignment and positioning of the limbs. Placing the washcloth to curl the fingers helps prevent hand contractures. Supporting the back and keeping the hips slightly flexed also helps prevent pressure ulcers and maintains proper body alignment. Choice A is incorrect because tightly holding a rolled washcloth may cause discomfort and restrict blood flow. Choice C is incorrect because placing the patient on the back with a pillow under the knees does not address the specific needs of a patient with right-sided paralysis. Choice D is incorrect because lying on the back with trochanter rolls and a footboard does not address the specific needs of a patient with right-sided paralysis and may not prevent contractures effectively.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Medulla. The medulla is located in the brainstem and plays a crucial role in controlling involuntary functions like breathing. It contains the respiratory center, which regulates the rate and depth of breathing. The medulla sends signals to the diaphragm and intercostal muscles to control breathing. The cerebrum (B) is responsible for higher brain functions, not breathing control. The cerebellum (C) coordinates movement and balance, not breathing. The thalamus (D) relays sensory information to the cerebral cortex, not involved in breathing regulation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Elevate the head of bed. Elevating the head of the bed helps improve lung expansion and ventilation, making it easier for patients with impaired respiratory function to breathe. This position also helps prevent aspiration and reduces the risk of respiratory complications. Antibiotics (choice A) are not indicated unless specifically prescribed for an infection. Bedrest (choice B) can lead to deconditioning and worsen respiratory function. Suctioning (choice D) every 4 hours is not necessary unless there is excessive secretions present.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Levodopa. Levodopa is the most effective pharmacologic agent for treating Parkinson's disease because it is converted to dopamine in the brain, replenishing the deficient dopamine levels in Parkinson's patients. Selegiline and Symmetrel are also used in treating Parkinson's, but they are typically used as adjunctive therapy rather than the primary treatment. Permax has been withdrawn from the market due to safety concerns, making it an incorrect choice.