Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the presentation of a patient during a myoclonic seizure?

1. Blank stare lasting 3 - 50 seconds with impaired level of consciousness

2. Rigid extension of arms and legs followed by sudden jerking movements

3. Awake state or momentary loss of consciousness with abnormal motor behavior lasting seconds to minutes

4. Aura characterized by unusual sense of smell or taste, visual or auditory hallucinations and stomach upset

The correct answer is: Awake state or momentary loss of consciousness with abnormal motor behavior lasting seconds to minutes

The presentation of a patient during a myoclonic seizure is characterized by brief, involuntary muscle jerks or twitches. This defines the essence of myoclonic seizures, which typically manifest as sudden, brief episodes of muscle contractions that can affect various muscle groups. The patient is often in an awake state during these events, although there may be a momentary loss of consciousness. The abnormal motor behavior occurs as rapid jerks of the muscles and lasts for seconds. While other seizure types are described in the other options, they do not accurately represent myoclonic seizures. For example, the first option describes typical features of absence seizures, which involve a blank stare and impaired consciousness. The second option refers to generalized tonic-clonic seizures, where rigid extension is observed, followed by jerking movements. The fourth option indicates features of a focal seizure, characterized by specific auras rather than the jerking behavior typical of myoclonic seizures. Understanding these differences helps in accurately identifying seizure types and administering appropriate care, which is crucial in the context of adult-gerontology nursing practice.