Physiological Adaptation Q 130
Marco, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor, was scheduled for craniotomy. In preventing the development of cerebral edema after surgery, the nurse should expect the use of:
A. Diuretics
B. Antihypertensive
C. Steroids
D. Anticonvulsants
Correct Answer: C. Steroids
Glucocorticoids (steroids) are used for their anti-inflammatory action, which decreases the development of edema. Corticosteroids produce their effect through multiple pathways. In general, they produce anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, protein and carbohydrate metabolic effects, water and electrolyte effects, central nervous system effects, and blood cell effects.
Option A: Diuretics help rid the body of salt (sodium) and water. Most of them help the kidneys release more sodium into the urine. The sodium takes with it water from the blood, decreasing the amount of fluid flowing in the veins and arteries, thereby reducing blood pressure. Diuretics are a medication used in the management and treatment of edematous and other non-edematous disease conditions. Diuretics are a class of drugs.
Option B: Antihypertensive drugs comprise several classes of compound with the therapeutic intention of preventing, controlling, or treating hypertension. The classes of antihypertensive drugs differ both structurally and functionally. They are important in anaesthetic practice because they are commonly prescribed to the general population, with the overall prevalence of hypertension being 31% in the UK [defined by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as a measurement of 140/90 mm Hg or higher in clinic, with subsequent ambulatory or home measurement of 135/85 mm Hg or higher].
Option D: Anticonvulsants suppress the excessive rapid firing of neurons during seizures. Anticonvulsants, or antiepileptics, are an ever-growing class of medications that act through multiple different mechanisms to control seizures — antiepileptic toxicity commonly presents with a triad of symptoms, which includes central nervous system (CNS) depression, ataxia, and nystagmus.