The nurse is caring for a patient with trigeminal neuralgia. What should the nurse expect the treatment focus to be for this health problem?

1. drugs such as tricyclic anticonvulsants or surgically severing the nerve root (rhizotomy)
2. antiviral drugs such as acyclovir and physical therapy
3. respiratory support and NSAIDs
4. physical therapy and warm, moist packs to the affected area


Correct Answer: 1
Trigeminal neuralgia is treated by a pharmacologic approach to pain control by prescribing tricyclic anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine (Tegretol) or rhizotomy, which is surgically severing the nerve root. Antiviral drugs and physical therapy are treatments for Bell palsy. Respiratory support, NSAIDs, physical therapy, and warm, moist packs to the affected area are not appropriate treatments.

Nursing

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