Author Question: Dantrolene sodium (Dantrium) is prescribed for the client experiencing flexor spasms. The client ... (Read 168 times)

ss2343 · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

Dantrolene sodium (Dantrium) is prescribed for the client experiencing flexor spasms. The client asks the nurse how the medication is going to help. The nurse replies that this medication acts:

1. To depress the spinal reflexes causing the spasms
2. On the central nervous system (CNS) to suppress spasms
3. Directly on the skeletal muscle to relieve the spasms
4. Within the spinal cord to suppress excess reflex activity

Question 2

The client who underwent preadmission testing prior to a surgical procedure had serum laboratory studies drawn, including complete blood count, electrolytes, coagulation studies, and creatinine.

Which of the following laboratory results should be reported to the surgeon immedi-ately? 1. Platelet count, 210,000/mm3
2. Serum sodium (Na) level, 141 mEq/L
3. Hemoglobin (Hgb) level, 8.9 g/dL
4. Serum creatinine level, 0.8 mg/dL

Jane · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

3

Rationale: Dantrium acts directly on skeletal muscle to relieve muscle spasticity. The primary action is the suppression of calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. This in turn decreases the ability of the skeletal muscle to contract. The other options are incorrect.

Answer to Question 2

3

Rationale: Routine screening tests include a complete blood count, coagulation studies, and se-rum electrolyte and creatinine levels. The complete blood count includes the hemoglobin analysis. All these values are within normal range except the hemoglobin. If a client has a low hemoglobin level, the surgery could likely be postponed by the surgeon.