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. Slowing the rate of infusion may provide some temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issue and may worsen the situation.
B. Applying a warm compress may soothe discomfort but is not the priority action when a burning sensation is reported, which could indicate potential extravasation.
C. Discontinuing the infusion is the best first action to prevent further damage to the tissue and to assess for complications such as infiltration or extravasation.
D. Checking for blood return can help assess the patency of the IV line, but the priority is to stop the infusion immediately to prevent complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Informing the patient about possible tingling is not as reassuring and does not directly address their concern about spinal cord damage.
B. While paresthesia can occur, focusing on temporary effects might not alleviate the patient’s primary concern about spinal cord injury.
C. Explaining that the needle is placed below where the spinal cord ends directly addresses the patient’s anxiety about potential damage, providing clarity and reassurance about the safety of the procedure.
D. While it is important for patients to report numbness, this response does not reassure them about the procedure's safety and may increase their anxiety.