Which is the only current medicinal treatment for ALS, which appears to affect the release of the neurotransmitter glutamate?
- A. riluzole
- B. benserazide
- C. carbidopa
- D. levodopa
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Riluzole is the only FDA-approved medication for ALS. It works by reducing the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that can cause excitotoxicity and damage neurons when present in excessive amounts.
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Which of the following drugs is used to decrease intracranial pressure following intracranial surgery?
- A. Benadryl
- B. Mannitol
- C. Prednisone
- D. Corticosteroids
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic that reduces intracranial pressure.
A patient exhibits muscle weakness and loss of coordination. The nurse should:
- A. Perform a comprehensive neurologic assessment to identify the underlying cause.
- B. Measure the patient's blood pressure.
- C. Inspect the patient's skin for rashes.
- D. Check the patient's blood glucose levels.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Muscle weakness and loss of coordination require a comprehensive neurologic assessment to identify the cause. Blood pressure, skin rashes, and blood glucose levels are secondary considerations.
A patient with a fractured right hip has an anterior open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture. What should the nurse plan to do postoperatively?
- A. Get the patient up to the chair on the first postoperative day.
- B. Position the patient only on the back and the unoperative side.
- C. Keep the leg abductor pillow on the patient even when bathing.
- D. Ambulate the patient with partial weight bearing by discharge.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Using an abductor pillow maintains proper alignment.
Trigeminal nerve impairment produces the following symptoms:
- A. plegia in half of the face
- B. ache paroxysm in half of the face
- C. disturbance of swallowing
- D. ache in half of the head
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Ache paroxysm in half of the face is the correct answer because the trigeminal nerve is responsible for sensory innervation of the face and motor control of the muscles of mastication. Damage to this nerve, as seen in trigeminal neuralgia, results in severe, episodic facial pain.
A nurse is assessing a client who has returned from a cerebral arteriogram. The left carotid site was punctured. Which of the following indicates complications?
- A. Difficulty swallowing (hematoma develops and pushes on the trachea)
- B. Puncture site is dry and red
- C. BP 120/82, HR 86, RR 22
- D. No swelling or hematoma at the site
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Difficulty swallowing after a cerebral arteriogram may indicate a hematoma at the puncture site, which can compress the trachea and cause respiratory distress. This is a serious complication requiring immediate intervention to prevent airway obstruction and further complications.