Which of the following drugs was most likely prescribed for the 45-year-old man recently diagnosed with partial seizures?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the most likely drug prescribed for the 45-year-old man with partial seizures is Carbamazepine (Option B). Carbamazepine is a commonly used anticonvulsant drug that is effective in treating partial seizures. It works by stabilizing the neuronal membranes and reducing the spread of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Levetiracetam (Option A) is also an anticonvulsant, but it is more commonly used for generalized seizures rather than partial seizures. Lamotrigine (Option C) is another anticonvulsant that is effective for various types of seizures, but it is not typically the first-line treatment for partial seizures in adults. Ethosuximide (Option D) is primarily used for absence seizures, not partial seizures. From an educational perspective, understanding the appropriate use of anticonvulsant drugs for different types of seizures is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals caring for patients with epilepsy. Knowing the specific indications and mechanisms of action of these medications helps in providing safe and effective care to patients with seizure disorders. It is important to be able to differentiate between the various anticonvulsants to ensure optimal treatment outcomes for patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this case, the neurologist decided to add a second-generation antiepileptic drug that blocks voltage-gated Na+ and Ca2+ channels and may inhibit the synaptic release of glutamate. Among the choices, Lamotrigine fits this description as it is known to block voltage-gated sodium channels, making it the most likely drug prescribed for the patient.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The recently approved drug that acts with a novel mechanism of action, a noncompetitive blockade of AMPA receptors on brain neurons, is Perampanel. Given that the patient had poorly controlled seizures with valproic acid, adding Perampanel would provide a different mechanism of action to improve seizure control.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Carbidopa is a drug that inhibits the peripheral metabolism of levodopa, allowing more levodopa to reach the brain and be converted to dopamine. In this patient with decreased dopamine metabolism in the striatum, adding carbidopa to the regimen would further enhance the availability of levodopa in the brain, thereby improving symptoms of parkinsonism. The other options do not directly address the issue of decreased dopamine metabolism in the striatum.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Donepezil, a cholinesterase inhibitor used in Alzheimer's disease, commonly causes gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, especially during the initial days of treatment. Option A) Hypertension, palpitations is incorrect because these symptoms are not typically associated with donepezil use. Option C) Dry mouth, anhidrosis is also incorrect as these are not commonly reported side effects of donepezil. Option D) Drowsiness, lethargy is not a typical side effect of donepezil; in fact, it is more likely to cause insomnia or vivid dreams. Educationally, it is crucial for nursing students to understand the common side effects of medications used in Alzheimer's disease to provide safe and effective care to their patients. Recognizing and managing potential adverse effects promptly can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.