A patient in the intensive care unit continues to exhibit seizure activity after receiving lorazepam.He currently has an intravenous infusion of dextrose 5% and 0.45 normal saline infusing at a rate of 125 mL/hr.The nurse would anticipate providing which medication?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Seizure activity that persists despite treatment with lorazepam is an indication to provide a second-line antiepileptic drug. Fosphenytoin is a commonly used second-line agent in the ICU and has a more rapid onset and duration of action than traditional phenytoin. Diazepam may be used as an adjunctive agent but is not typically paired with phenytoin in the treatment of seizures. Haloperidol is not indicated for the treatment of seizures. Additional lorazepam is unlikely to be effective if the initial dose has not terminated seizure activity.

A Patient in the Intensive Care Unit Continues to Exhibit