NURS615 Week 4 Assignment 4.1 Study Guide Questions And Answers

What blood values should be monitored with carbamazepine? Due to the possibility of causing blood dyscrasias such as anemia, leukopenia, or agranulocytosis (Woo & Robinson, 2019, p. 205). Blood cell counts should be monitored with a CBC especially if patient is of Asian ethnicity (Woo & Robinson, 2019, p. 205). 2. What are the pharmacodynamics of carbamazepine? Carbamazepine has a mechanism of action that is not completely understood but is able to induce its own metabolism (Woo & Robinson, 2019, p. 205). The mechanism of action is believed to be associated with the slowing of sodium flowing into cortical neuron channels thus slowing transmission of abnormal activity in the thalamus (Woo & Robinson, 2019, p. 205). 3. What should families be taught regarding the monitoring of seizure activity? Families and patients should be taught about the factors that are known to lead to a seizure including lack of sleep, over stimulation of sensory functions, hyperventilation, increase or decrease in hormones, and emotional stresses (Woo & Robinson, 2019, p. 196). If a seizure were to happen it is important to monitor and take note of the precipitating factors, severity of the seizure, and how long the seizure lasts (Woo & Robinson, 2019, p. 206). If taking carbazepine it is important to note level of consciousness depress or altered level of consciousness in addition to any suicidal ideations or behavior changes and to abruptly stop taking the medication (Woo & Robinson, 2019, p. 206).