Author Question: Which drug would the nurse expect might be prescribed for a patient who has neuropathic pain that is ... (Read 115 times)

bucstennis@aim.com · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

Which drug would the nurse expect might be prescribed for a patient who has neuropathic pain that is described as dull, aching, or throbbing pain?

a. carbamazepine c. corticosteroid
b. phenytoin d. amitriptyline hy-drochloride

Question 2

In preparation for discharge, the nurse gathers materials for the 72-year-old client who has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Included in the materials is information related to long-term care placement.

A new graduate working with the nurse questions why this has been included, as this client has only recently been diagnosed and is returning to home at this time. What information should be included in the response to the graduate nurse? 1. Long-term care placement is inevitable with this diagnosis.
2. Early introduction to potential placements will allow the client and family time to make a more informed decision.
3. By providing this information now, we will not need to address these concerns later.
4. It often takes 6 to12 months for an individual with Alzheimer's disease to establish a successful transfer to a facility, and this will allow adequate time.

Leostella20 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

D
The medication used to treat neuropathic pain described as dull, aching, or throbbing is a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline hydrochloride. Anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine and phenytoin are used to treat neuropathic pain described as sharp, shooting, burning, or lancinating. Corticosteroids are used to treat pain due to cerebral or spinal cord edema or that in peripheral nerves caused by perineural edema.

Answer to Question 2

2. Early introduction to potential placements will allow the client and family time to make a more informed decision.
Rationale:
Although placement in a long-term care facility is not going to be the fate of all individuals with Alzheimer's disease, it is a common one. Providing the information early in the disease process allows the family to make an informed choice. Nurses will need to provide reinforced education and referrals throughout the disease process, not just during the initial hospitalization. There is no plan to transfer the client at this time; adjustment would occur after the transfer.