Final answer:
To understand why Alanna started having seizure activity, the nurse should ask questions regarding her personal history of seizures, any diagnosed neurological conditions, family history of seizures or epilepsy, and recent stress or sleep patterns. Therefore, the correct option is a, b, c, d.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine why seizure activity started in Alanna, a nurse should ask a series of medical history questions that can help pinpoint the cause of the seizures. Below are the questions that should be asked, with some context on why they're important:
- "Have you ever experienced a seizure before?" - This question can help establish if there is a previous history of seizures, which is a vital part of evaluating a potential diagnosis of epilepsy.
- "Have you been diagnosed with any neurological conditions?" - Since epilepsy can be a symptom of a brain injury or disease, knowing about any existing neurological conditions can shed light on the cause of the seizures.
- "Do you have a family history of seizures or epilepsy?" - Genetic factors can play a significant role in epilepsy, so a family history could suggest a predisposition to seizure disorders.
- "Have you been under a lot of stress or sleep-deprived recently?" - Environmental factors, including stress and lack of sleep, can trigger seizures even in individuals without a history of epilepsy.
These questions cover aspects of both personal and family medical history and could reveal whether the seizures are related to genetics, an underlying neurological condition, or environmental factors. Understanding the full medical history is critical for a neurologist to provide the best possible care, which may include anticonvulsant medications or referral to a neurosurgeon for further treatment options if needed.