Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 64%
Simulated
A hospitalized client diagnosed with seizures has a vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device implanted. The nurse determines that the VNS is working properly when making which observation?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
A VNS device does not stimulate the heart to beat as a pacemaker. A VNS device does not defibrillate the heart as an implantable cardioverter/defibrillator does. A VNS is a medical device that is implanted in the chest and stimulates the vagus nerve to control seizures unresponsive to medical treatment. Clients who experience auras before a seizure use a magnet to activate the VNS to stop the seizure. The device does not have an effect on the airway or secretions.