NURS 615 Exam 2 Comprehensive Study Guide
Questions And Answers 2024
1. What blood values should be monitored with carbamazepine? P. 206-207
-CBC for agranulocytosis, BMP, and liver function tests. Carbamazepine can
effects the body’s production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Carbamazepine can also effect sodium levels, and serum carbamazepine levels
should be monitored for toxicity.
2. What is the pharmacodynamics of carbamazepine? p. 205
-Carbamazepine decreases transmission in the nucleus ventralis anterior of the
thalamus, which is associated with the spread of seizure discharge. The exact
mechanism of action is not known but may work by slowing sodium influx to the
cortical neurons thus slowing the spread of abnormal neuron activity.
3. What should families be taught regarding the monitoring of seizure
activity?
-Seizure triggers, when to contact the physician, how to take medications
properly and that medication needs may change with patient growth (kids), need
for monitoring blood levels, signs of adverse drug reactions
, NURS 615 Exam 2 Comprehensive Study Guide Questions And Answers 2024
4. What electrolyte imbalance is noted with the administration of topiramate?
P. 214
-Topiramate is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and reduces concentrations of
bicarbonate and loss of renal bicarbonate. The result is hyperchloremic metabolic
acidosis and low serum bicarbonate.
5. What are the pregnancy precautions for valproate? P. 254
-Pregnancy category D. Use of the drug in the 1st trimester is associated with
neural tube defects such as spina bifida.
6. What instructions will you provide to a woman who wants to get pregnant
and has a seizure disorder controlled with valproate? P. 254-255
-She should be advised to speak with her neurologist before trying to get
pregnant. Valproate is a known teratogen. An alternate medication may be
indicated. High risk OB/GYN would be needed
7. What are the precautions and contraindications for the tricyclic
antidepressants? P. 218- 219
-Contraindicated with cardiovascular disorders (Direct alpha adrenergic blocking
effect and quinidine like effect on the myocardium)
-Use with caution in those with glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary
incontinence o Do not use in combination with MAOIs
-Use with extreme caution in pregnancy
-Most significant risk is cardiac conduction disorder mostly in peds and elderly
-May develop sinus tachycardia due to slowing of depolarization of the cardiac
muscle contributing to prolongation of the QRS complex and PR/QT interval