A nurse in the PACU is caring for a client who has received general anesthesia and has manifestations of malignant hyperthermia. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer?
Diazepam
Dantrolene
Cyclobenzaprine
Metaxalone
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety and sedation but is not effective for treating malignant hyperthermia.
B. Dantrolene is the specific antidote for malignant hyperthermia, and the nurse should expect to administer it to help reduce the severe muscle contractions and hypermetabolism associated with this condition.
C. Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant used for muscle spasms but is not indicated for malignant hyperthermia.
D. Metaxalone is also a muscle relaxant, but like cyclobenzaprine, it is not effective for managing malignant hyperthermia and would not be used in this situation.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Muscle rigidity of the extremities: This finding is more indicative of hyperkalemia or severe electrolyte imbalances but is not a common symptom of hypokalemia.
B. Bounding radial pulses: This finding is more associated with hypervolemia or hyperkalemia, not with hypokalemia caused by furosemide.
C. Depressed deep tendon reflexes: This is the correct response, as low potassium levels (hypokalemia) can lead to diminished reflexes due to its role in neuromuscular function.
D. Increased bowel motility: This is incorrect, as hypokalemia typically results in decreased bowel motility and may cause constipation rather than increased motility.
Correct Answer is E
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Mostly cloudy: This is an unclear statement. It is not related to a physical manifestation that would result from haloperidol overdose.
B. Constipation: Although haloperidol can cause constipation as a side effect, it is not the most urgent concern. Other manifestations are more immediately life-threatening.
C. Dry mouth: Dry mouth is a common side effect of antipsychotics, but it is not life-threatening and would not be the priority assessment in the case of a medication overdose.
D. Daytime drowsiness: Sedation is a known side effect of haloperidol, but it is not the priority in this scenario where an overdose occurred.
E. Muscle stiffness: Muscle stiffness may indicate extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) or neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), both of which are serious and potentially life-threatening side effects of haloperidol, especially in cases of overdose. Assessing for these symptoms is the priority.