A patient on the neurological unit is in status epilepticus. The nurse knows that which of the following medications may be given to halt the seizure immediately?
A) Intravenous phenobarbital (Luminal)
B) Intravenous diazepam (Valium)
C) Oral lorazepam (Ativan)
D) Oral phenytoin (Dilantin)
Ans: B
Feedback: Status epilepticus (acute prolonged seizure activity) is a series of generalized seizures that occur without full recovery of consciousness between attacks. Medical management of status epilepticus includes intravenous diazepam (Valium) and intravenous lorazepam (Ativan) given slowly in an attempt to halt the seizure immediately. Other medications (phenytoin, phenobarbital) are given later to maintain a seizure-free state.
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