Author Question: A 10-year-old child, without a history of previous seizures, experiences a tonic-clonic seizure at ... (Read 88 times)

asmith134 · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A 10-year-old child, without a history of previous seizures, experiences a tonic-clonic seizure at school. Breathing is not impaired, but some postictal confusion occurs. The most appropriate initial action by the school nurse is to:

a. stay with child and have someone call emergency medical service (EMS).
b. notify parent and regular practitioner.
c. notify parent that child should go home.
d. stay with child, offering calm reassurance.

Question 2

A child has been seizure-free for 2 years. A father asks the nurse how much longer the child will need to take the antiseizure medications. The nurse includes which intervention in the response?

a. Medications can be discontinued at this time.
b. The child will need to take the drugs for 5 years after the last seizure.
c. A step-wise approach will be used to reduce the dosage gradually.
d. Seizure disorders are a lifelong problem. Medications cannot be discontinued.

Ddddd · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The EMS should be called to transport the child because this is the child's first seizure. Because this is the first seizure, evaluation should be performed as soon as possible. The nurse should stay with the child while someone else notifies the EMS.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
A predesigned protocol is used to wean a child gradually off antiseizure medications, usually when the child is seizure-free for 2 years and has a normal electroencephalogra m (EEG). Medications must be gradually reduced to minimize the recurrence of seizures. Seizure medications can be safely discontinued. The risk of recurrence is greatest within the first year.