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A provider has prescribed dantrolene for the following patients. Which patient will the provider monitor most closely for risk of injury?

A) A 55-year-old woman with multiple sclerosis
B) A 45-year-old man with a history of malignant hyperthermia
C) An 8-year-old child with cerebral palsy
D) A 20-year-old woman with a spinal cord injury

User Cratylus
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The 55-year-old woman with multiple sclerosis will be monitored most closely due to the increased risk of injury caused by muscle weakness and the age-related risk of falls when treated with dantrolene.

Therefore the correct answer is option A 55-year-old woman with multiple sclerosis

Step-by-step explanation:

The provider will likely monitor the 55-year-old woman with multiple sclerosis most closely for risk of injury when prescribing dantrolene. Dantrolene is a muscle relaxant used to treat conditions characterized by high muscle tone or spasticity, which is common in multiple sclerosis.

Due to its action, dantrolene may exacerbate muscle weakness and increase the risk of falls or other injuries, especially in older patients who may already be at an increased risk of injury from falls. Although it is also prescribed for the other listed conditions, the combination of the medication's effects and the patient's age and condition make the woman with multiple sclerosis a higher risk for injury.

Furthermore, dantrolene has a range of side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, and fatigue, which can further contribute to the risk of injury.

User Savena
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