Final answer:
Nimodipine (Nimotop) is used to prevent the influx of calcium into cells, specifically to reduce the likelihood of cerebral vasospasm following a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. It is a calcium channel blocker, aiming to preserve blood flow and prevent subsequent brain injury.
Step-by-step explanation:
The desired effect of Nimodipine (Nimotop), when prescribed for a client with a ruptured cerebral aneurysm, is to prevent the influx of calcium into cells. Nimodipine belongs to the class of medications known as calcium channel blockers, which are often used to treat high blood pressure and prevent complications from heart conditions. However, in the context of a cerebral aneurysm, the drug primarily works by inhibiting calcium ions from entering neuronal cells, which can help prevent the occurrence of cerebral vasospasm—a common and severe complication following a subarachnoid hemorrhage due to a ruptured aneurysm. This spasm of the blood vessels can lead to further ischemic injury to brain tissue. Therefore, by preventing this spasm, Nimodipine helps to maintain adequate blood flow to the brain and reduce the risk of secondary brain damage. It is important to recognize that Nimodipine does not dissolve clots, restore normal blood pressure, or prevent the inflammatory process as its primary indications.