Seizure Medication Flashcards
(30 cards)
What measures are taken to prevent injury during a seizure?
Turn patient on side, remove harmful objects, keep bed low, and raise side rails.
How might seizure medications interact with hormonal birth control?
Certain antiepileptic drugs may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.
What are examples of broad-spectrum antiepileptic drugs?
Valproic acid, primidone, lamotrigine, levetiracetam.
What dietary considerations are important when administering certain seizure medications?
Administer with food if GI distress occurs; monitor appetite.
What is the role of lifestyle choices, such as alcohol consumption, in relation to seizure medications?
Alcohol may interact with medications and increase side effects.
What specific risks are associated with valproic acid in young children?
Increased risk for liver damage leading to death.
What important baseline assessments should be performed prior to administering broad-spectrum antiepileptic drugs?
Coagulation values, liver function, blood count, weight, vision.
How do older adults respond differently to antiepileptic drugs?
They may experience increased sensitivity to side effects.
What is the intended response of treating seizures with broad-spectrum drugs?
Prevent and control seizures while decreasing abnormal electrical impulses.
What are the potential side effects of lamotrigine?
Nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, and risk of Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
What are lifespan considerations for pediatric patients receiving antiepileptic drugs?
Increased sensitivity, possible behavioral changes, and dose adjustments based on growth.
What teaching should be provided to patients taking seizure medications?
Take as prescribed, do not drive, and wear a medical alert bracelet.
What types of seizures are classified as partial seizures?
Simple partial and complex partial.
How should patients be instructed to manage missed doses of seizure medications?
Take as soon as remembered unless close to next dose; do not double up.
What are common side effects associated with phenytoin?
Diplopia, nystagmus, hypotension, gingival hyperplasia.
How do narrow-spectrum antiepileptic drugs differ from broad-spectrum ones?
Narrow-spectrum are effective for specific seizure types, while broad-spectrum are effective for a wider variety of seizures.
What is status epilepticus, and why is it a medical emergency?
A prolonged seizure or series of repeated seizures that require immediate intervention.
What adverse effects may arise from the use of carbamazepine?
Neutropenia, aplastic anemia, thrombocytopenia.
What is the significance of maintaining airway during a seizure?
To prevent aspiration and ensure adequate oxygenation.
What general precautions should be taken before administering antiepileptic drugs?
Complete list of current medications, nature of seizures, baseline vital signs.
How are generalized seizures classified?
They affect most or all of the brain.
What is the mechanism of action of carbamazepine in seizure control?
It decreases impulse transmission by affecting sodium channels in neurons.
How often should patients taking antiepileptic drugs have their lab tests done?
Regularly, based on specific drug requirements and clinical status.
What are potential life-threatening adverse effects of broad-spectrum antiepileptic drugs?
Neutropenia, hepatotoxicity, respiratory depression.
