Anticonvulsants Flashcards
what is a seizure?
brief episode of abnormal electric discharges from the cerebral neurons
convulsions, loss of conciousness
epilepsy
a chronic pattern of seizures
do anticonvulsants treat the cause of seizures?
no
when are episodes of seizures more common?
during pregnancy
what drug class is dilantin?
hydantoin (anticonvulsant)
how does dilantin work?
inhibits sodium influx, stabilizes cell membrane, decreases repeated firing in cns
list some contraindications of dilantin
slow but normal hear rate, sa block, second or third degree heartblock
vesicant
irritates veins
list some side effects of dilantin
hypotension, enlarged gums, low platlet count, low wbc, discolored urine
what are some nursing implications related to dilantin?
drug must be taken on schedule, monitor oral care, bp
use seizure precautions
what are some signs of dilantin toxicity?
nystagmus, ataxia, hypotension, decreased loc
status epilepticus
continuous seizure state
give benzodiazapine, then dilantin
