A patient with a history of seizures has been admitted to the hospital for a minor infection and will be going home tomorrow. The patient has been taking lamotrigine (Lamictal) and valproic acid (Depakote)
Upon assessment, the nurse notes that the patient has widespread lesions of the skin and mucous membranes and a temperature of 102.9°F, and that the patient complains of malaise. The nurse should suspect a. a hematological reaction.
b. Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
c. toxic levels of valproic acid (Depakote).
d. toxic epidermal necrolysis.
B
Lamotrigine can cause life-threatening rashes, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Concurrent use of valproic acid increases the risk.
No evidence indicates a hematological reaction.
No evidence indicates Depakote toxicity, which may manifest as hepatotoxicity and pancreatitis.
Symptoms of toxic epidermal necrolysis are not manifested in this patient.
You might also like to view...
Which initial intervention will the nurse suggest to the parents of a child experiencing laryngeal spasm?
a. Take the child outside in the cool air. b. Bring the child directly to the emergency department. c. Take the child to the bathroom and turn on a hot shower. d. Have the child drink plenty of fluids.
An employment contract is made between a nurse and a health care agency to perform certain services. The nurse is aware that this is an example of which type of law?
a. administrative c. contract b. civil d. statutory
The nurse is aware that separation is the major stressor for which age group?
a. Newborns and infants b. Infants and toddlers c. Toddlers and preschoolers d. Preschoolers and school-age children
A breastfeeding postpartum client reports sore nipples to the nurse during a home visit. What intervention would be the highest priority?
1. Infant positioning 2. Use of the breast shield 3. Use of breast pads 4. Type of soap used