Question

Following a generalized seizure, the nurse can expect the client to: A. Be unable to move the extremities B. Be drowsy and prone to sleep C. Remember events before the seizure D. Have a drop in blood pressure

Short answer

Answer: Be drowsy and prone to sleep.

Step-by-step solution

Evaluation of Option A

Be unable to move the extremities: This is not a common sign to expect after a generalized seizure. Shortly after a seizure, a person may have temporary weakness in their muscles, but they should not be completely unable to move their extremities.

Evaluation of Option B

Be drowsy and prone to sleep: Following a generalized seizure, it is common for the person to feel drowsy and tired. They may want to sleep or rest as their body recovers from the seizure.

Evaluation of Option C

Remember events before the seizure: It's common for people to have memory loss or confusion surrounding the time of the seizure. They might not be able to recall what happened right before or during the seizure.

Evaluation of Option D

Have a drop in blood pressure: A drop in blood pressure is not typically expected following a seizure. If anything, blood pressure might initially increase due to seizure-related stress.

Choosing the Correct Answer

After analyzing each option, the correct answer is option B: Be drowsy and prone to sleep. This is the most common and expected outcome for a client following a generalized seizure.

Key concepts

NCLEX-PN Exam Preparation

Studying for the NCLEX-PN exam requires a thorough understanding of various medical conditions and nursing interventions, including the management of seizures. When preparing for questions related to seizures, candidates should emphasize the postictal phase, which is a critical period following a generalized seizure. During this phase, patients often experience a range of symptoms, which can include drowsiness and fatigue—a common aspect that could be featured on the exam.

It's beneficial to focus on the evaluation of signs and symptoms following seizures and the nursing interventions that should be implemented. Test-takers should be familiar with the step-by-step approach to patient assessment and care, just as seen in the textbook exercise provided. Knowing the typical symptoms and how to care for a patient after a seizure will not only help in passing the NCLEX-PN exam but also in actual nursing practice. Utilizing resources such as textbooks, practice questions, and coursework centered around neurology and patient recovery can solidify a candidate’s proficiency in this area.

Seizures in Nursing Care

Seizures can be a dramatic and challenging event for both patients and healthcare providers. In nursing care, understanding the full scope of seizure management is essential. This includes pre-seizure warning signs, known as aura, seizure precautions, immediate interventions during the event, and post-seizure care.

After a generalized seizure, a patient enters a postictal state, where it's critical for the nurse to monitor vital signs, assure safety, and provide a calm environment. During this time, a patient may experience different symptoms, such as muscle weakness, confusion, and drowsiness. While complete immobility of extremities or significant drops in blood pressure are not expected outcomes, temporary muscle fatigue and slight alterations in blood pressure could be observed. Nurses should assess these post-seizure symptoms with a compassionate and knowledgeable approach, ensuring the patient's prompt and comprehensive recovery.

Post-Seizure Symptoms

Following a seizure, especially a generalized type that impacts both cerebral hemispheres, patients may exhibit a variety of post-seizure symptoms. The most common symptom, as correctly identified in the textbook solution, is drowsiness. This state of reduced alertness and desire for sleep is due to the intense electrical activity in the brain during a seizure, which can leave the patient feeling exhausted.

Other symptoms may include mild confusion, headache, muscle soreness, or brief periods of muscle weakness (Todd's paralysis). It is rare for a patient to retain memories of the event leading up to or during the seizure, thus memory loss is also a notable post-seizure symptom. Nurses should ensure that the patient is placed in a safe environment to rest, frequently reassess vital signs, and provide support as the patient regains full consciousness and recovers to their baseline status.