The nurse is caring for a patient admitted to the emergency department in status epilepticus.Vital signs assessed by the nurse include blood pressure 160/100 mm Hg,heart rate 145 beats/min,respiratory rate 36 breaths/min,oxygen saturation (SpO₂)96% on 100% supplemental oxygen by non-rebreather mask.After establishing an intravenous (IV)line,which prescription by the provider should the nurse implement first? A) Obtain stat serum electrolytes. B) Administer lorazepam. C) Obtain stat portable chest x-ray. D) Administer phenytoin.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should administer lorazepam as ordered; lorazepam is the first-line medication for the treatment of status epilepticus.Phenytoin is administered only when lorazepam fails to stop seizure activity or if intermittent seizures persist for longer than 20 minutes.Serum electrolytes and chest x-rays are appropriate orders but not the priority in this scenario.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Admitted to the Emergency