Question

The nurse has administered intravenous​ (IV) diazepam​ (Valium) for the client in status epilepticus. Which initial assessment should the nurse​ perform?

a. Heart rate
b. Respirations
c. Blood pressure
d. Level of consciousness

Answer 1

The initial assessment after administering IV diazepam for status epilepticus should be the level of consciousness. This assessment is crucial for monitoring the medication's efficacy and the patient's neurological status.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse administers intravenous (IV) diazepam (Valium) to a client in status epilepticus, the initial assessment should be the level of consciousness. Diazepam is an anticonvulsant used to manage seizures, which can improve the long-term prognosis and reduce the risk of brain damage. It's critical to quickly assess and confirm the effectiveness of the medication and to monitor for any adverse effects.

The assessment of the level of consciousness provides immediate information on the patient's neurologic status and the initial effect of the medication on the seizures. Changes in the level of consciousness can indicate alterations in cerebral function and are crucial for determining the need for further intervention or the success of the treatment. This can involve checking if the patient is awake, responsive to verbal commands or stimuli, or if they have entered a postictal state following a seizure. Rapid assessment of neurological function is vital in an emergency as it guides subsequent treatment decisions and can impact the patient's outcome significantly.