The nurse is caring for a patient with trigeminal neuralgia. Which medication to treat the patient's pain would the nurse question?
gabapentin
carbamazepine
baclofen
oxycodone
The Correct Answer is D
A. Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant commonly used to treat neuropathic pain, including trigeminal neuralgia. It works by stabilizing nerve activity and is appropriate for this condition.
B. Carbamazepine is considered the first-line treatment for trigeminal neuralgia as it decreases nerve impulses, which helps reduce pain. It is a commonly prescribed medication for this condition.
C. Baclofen is a muscle relaxant and can be used in combination with anticonvulsants to treat trigeminal neuralgia by reducing muscle spasms associated with nerve irritation.
D. Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic that treats general pain but is not typically effective for the specific type of neuropathic pain experienced in trigeminal neuralgia. Opioids do not address the underlying nerve activity and are not recommended for long-term management of this condition.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A lesion of cranial nerve IX primarily affects swallowing and taste sensations rather than motor coordination or balance, so this is unlikely to explain the patient's symptoms.
B. Vestibular disease typically results in vertigo and balance issues, but the specific observations of slow alternating movements and loss of balance during the Romberg Test suggest a different underlying cause.
C. Dysfunction of the cerebellum would explain the patient's difficulties with rapid alternating movements and balance issues, as the cerebellum is responsible for coordinating motor activity and maintaining posture and balance. This aligns with the assessment findings, indicating a probable cerebellar dysfunction.
D. While an AVM in the frontal lobe could affect motor control, the specific symptoms presented, such as the inability to perform rapid movements and balance issues, are more characteristic of cerebellar dysfunction rather than a frontal lobe lesion.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The prone position is not suitable post-craniotomy as it can increase intracranial pressure and may compromise respiratory function.
B. The dorsal recumbent position is not ideal for patients post-craniotomy, as it can hinder optimal intracranial pressure management.
C. The lateral recumbent position is generally avoided immediately after craniotomy to prevent pressure on the surgical site and ensure proper cerebral perfusion.
D. The Semi-Fowler's position helps reduce intracranial pressure, promotes venous drainage, and is generally recommended for post-operative care following a craniotomy.