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. 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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Requesting antidepressant medication may be appropriate later, but it does not address the immediate need for emotional support and communication.
B. Encouraging the client to verbalize feelings about their diagnosis provides an opportunity for the client to express their concerns and emotions, fostering a therapeutic relationship and aiding in emotional processing.
C. While explaining improved prognosis can provide hope, it may minimize the client’s feelings of fear and uncertainty and could be perceived as dismissive.
D. Allowing time for reflection is important, but it should be balanced with the need for communication and support to prevent isolation.