A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with Trigeminal neuralgia who is suddenly experiencing severe pain on the left side of the face. The nurse identifies which classification of medications is most effective in treating this type of pain?
Analgesics
Antibiotics
Anticonvulsants
Antihistamines
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Analgesics, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may provide some relief for mild pain but are generally not effective for the severe, neuropathic pain associated with Trigeminal neuralgia. This condition requires medications that specifically target nerve pain.
Choice B reason:
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and are not effective for treating neuropathic pain conditions like Trigeminal neuralgia. This type of pain is not caused by an infection, so antibiotics would not be appropriate.
Choice C reason:
Anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine and gabapentin, are the most effective medications for treating Trigeminal neuralgia. These drugs help stabilize nerve activity and reduce the frequency and intensity of pain episodes. They are considered the first-line treatment for this condition.
Choice D reason:
Antihistamines are used to treat allergic reactions and are not effective for neuropathic pain. They do not have the properties needed to manage the severe pain associated with Trigeminal neuralgia.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Organizing an influenza immunization campaign is an example of primary prevention, which aims to prevent the onset of illness or injury before it occurs. Secondary prevention focuses on early detection and intervention to prevent the progression of disease or injury.
Choice B reason:
Helping plant workers identify signs of carpal tunnel syndrome is a secondary prevention strategy. It involves early detection of symptoms and providing education on how to manage and seek treatment for the condition. Early intervention can prevent the progression of carpal tunnel syndrome and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Choice C reason:
Teaching plant workers about proper lifting techniques is an example of primary prevention. It aims to prevent injuries by educating workers on safe practices. While important, it does not fall under secondary prevention, which focuses on early detection and intervention.
Choice D reason:
Collaborating with a physical therapist to develop programs for injured employees to return to work is an example of tertiary prevention. Tertiary prevention focuses on rehabilitation and managing long-term health conditions to improve quality of life and prevent further complications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A gradual onset of headache is more characteristic of other types of headaches or conditions, such as tension headaches or migraines. Hemorrhagic strokes, particularly those caused by a ruptured cerebral aneurysm, typically present with a sudden and severe headache, often described as the “worst headache of my life.” This sudden onset is due to the rapid accumulation of blood in the brain, which increases intracranial pressure and causes immediate symptoms.
Choice B reason:
Changes in consciousness are a common manifestation of a hemorrhagic stroke. The sudden bleeding into the brain can disrupt normal brain function, leading to symptoms such as confusion, lethargy, or loss of consciousness. These changes occur rapidly and are a key indicator of a serious neurological event. The nurse should be vigilant for any alterations in the client’s level of consciousness, as this can signify worsening of the condition and the need for immediate medical intervention.
Choice C reason:
A gradual onset of several hours is not typical for hemorrhagic strokes. These strokes usually present with sudden and severe symptoms due to the abrupt rupture of a blood vessel in the brain. The rapid increase in intracranial pressure from the bleeding causes immediate and severe symptoms, rather than a slow progression over hours.
Choice D reason:
A history of neurologic deficits lasting less than 1 hour is more indicative of a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke. TIAs are temporary and resolve within a short period without causing permanent damage. In contrast, a hemorrhagic stroke caused by a ruptured cerebral aneurysm results in immediate and severe symptoms that do not resolve quickly and require urgent medical attention.