Question

1. What are some assessments that identify a client’s neurological status?
2. What is the importance of the Glascow Coma Scale?
3. Describe what the nurse should do to implement seizure precautions of a pediatric client.
4. Identify 4 safety concerns for a child that has a seizure disorder.
5. What are the diagnostics test are important in diagnosing or managing a client with a suspected neurological disorder?

Answer 1

Ans) 1) A thorough neurologic assessment will include assessing mental status, cranial nerves, motor and sensory function, pupillary response, reflexes, the cerebellum, and vital signs.

- Also most vital sign changes are a sign of end-stage neurologic injury.

2) The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is the most common scoring system used to describe the level of consciousness in a person following a traumatic brain injury. Basically, it is used to help gauge the severity of an acute brain injury.

3) Any pediatric patient with a traumatic brain injury is at risk for seizures.

- Precautions include keeping oxygen and suction available at the bedside.

- If the patient has a known seizure history, continue prescribed anti-seizure medication.

- If the patient is on the floor, place something under his head to prevent injury.

- Always should be assisted by care giver.

4) Safety concerns for a child that has a seizure disorder:

- Place child on a soft surface, such as a bed.
- Prevent choking by laying the child on his or her side or stomach.
- Ensure that the child is breathing adequately.
- Never place anything in the child's mouth during a convulsion.