NUR 2571 PN2 MODULE 9 DAVIS SEIZURES

An older client was recently discharged from the hospital for evaluation of seizure activity. His history reveals that he has late-stage Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, hypertension, and type II diabetes mellitus, which is controlled by diet. He lives at home, where his wife and daughter take care of him. His discharge medications include phenytoin (Dilantin), 100 mg BID; hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL), 50 mg QD; levodopa (Sinemet), 25/100 TID; and haloperidol (Haldol), 1 mg before bed. The client has been referred for home care nursing follow-up. Questions: 1. On the initial home visit by the nurse, what assessments should be made? 1. Safety checks – Ex: No frayed exposed wires, no loose rugs that can cause the patient to trip and fall, water heater temperature too high or too low 2. Initial head to toe assessment 3. Focused assessment (more specifically, a neurological focused assessment) 2. The wife and daughter need teaching about his antiepileptic medication. What teaching should be included? - The possible side effects of the medication - When to administer the medication - The purpose of the medication - When to contact a provider regarding side effects - Take medication as directed and finish entire course of antibiotics - The patient should not consume any alcohol while taking this medication - Perform good oral hygiene 3. During the initial home visit, the client experiences a generalized seizure. What action should the nurse take? The nurse should gently put the patient on the floor and on his side. The nurse should also remove any objects that may cause harm or injury to the patient. After the seizure has ended, the nurse should check