Chapter 12: Sudden Illness

A seizure is a neurological event characterized by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is not related to a sudden heart attack, brain freeze, or lack of sleep. During a seizure, there may be a variety of symptoms such as convulsions, loss of consciousness, and abnormal movements or sensations. These abnormal electrical discharges disrupt the normal functioning of the brain and can be caused by various factors, including epilepsy, head injuries, infections, or genetic conditions.

The correct answer is to assist the person in using their prescription inhaler. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing. Prescription inhalers contain medication that helps to open up the airways and relieve symptoms. Assisting the person in using their inhaler ensures that they are receiving the appropriate medication and using it correctly to manage their asthma effectively.

A Geriatric Nurse specializes in providing healthcare services to elderly individuals. They are trained to understand and address the unique physical and mental health needs of older adults. Working at a retirement community allows them to provide comprehensive care to the elderly population residing there. They are equipped with knowledge and skills to assess, diagnose, and treat age-related health issues, promote healthy aging, and ensure the overall well-being of older adults. Therefore, the statement is true.

During a seizure, it is important to roll the person onto their side to prevent choking on saliva or vomit. Timing the seizure is crucial to determine its duration, and if it lasts more than 3 minutes, it is necessary to call 9-1-1 for medical assistance. This is because prolonged seizures can be a medical emergency and require immediate attention. Therefore, the statement is true.

A stroke is the sudden death of brain cells. It occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, either due to a blockage in the blood vessels (ischemic stroke) or due to bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The lack of blood flow and oxygen to the brain leads to the death of brain cells, which can result in various neurological symptoms and long-term complications. Prompt medical intervention is crucial in order to minimize brain damage and improve the chances of recovery.

In a hemorrhagic stroke, there is bleeding in the brain due to a ruptured blood vessel. To address this issue, a surgeon stitches the ruptured blood vessel to stop the bleeding and prevent further damage. This surgical intervention aims to repair the damaged blood vessel and restore normal blood flow in the affected area of the brain.

The given symptoms, dizziness/loss of balance and difficulty seeing and speaking, are commonly associated with a stroke. These symptoms occur suddenly and are indicative of a disruption in blood flow to the brain. Dizziness and loss of balance can result from the brain's inability to coordinate movements, while difficulty seeing and speaking can be caused by damage to the areas of the brain responsible for these functions. Therefore, these symptoms are key indicators of a stroke and should be taken seriously.

Breathing into a bag is not recommended for someone who is hyperventilating. Hyperventilation is often caused by anxiety or panic and can lead to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the body. Breathing into a bag can further decrease carbon dioxide levels, exacerbating the symptoms. Instead, it is recommended to help the person focus on slow, deep breaths and to provide reassurance and support.

Breathing difficulty refers to the sensation of struggling to breathe or experiencing discomfort while breathing. Hyperventilating is a condition where a person breathes rapidly and shallowly, often leading to dizziness or lightheadedness. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, causing breathing difficulties. While anxiety can also cause shortness of breath, it is not a specific term used to describe breathing difficulty. Therefore, the correct answer is hyperventilating and asthma.

Seizures can be caused by various factors such as head injuries, low blood sugar, and stroke. Head injuries can disrupt the normal functioning of the brain and lead to abnormal electrical activity, triggering a seizure. Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can affect the brain's energy supply and cause seizures. Stroke, which occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, can also result in seizures due to the damage caused to the brain tissue. Therefore, these three factors can all contribute to the occurrence of a seizure.