Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

Which subtype of seizures can be a manifestation of epilepsy?

1. Absence seizures

2. Myoclonic seizures

3. Tonic-clonic seizures

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

All of the listed seizure types—absence seizures, myoclonic seizures, and tonic-clonic seizures—are indeed manifestations of epilepsy. Absence seizures, characterized by brief lapses in consciousness, often occur in childhood and may be mistaken for daydreaming. These seizures can occur multiple times a day and are a part of generalized epilepsy syndromes. Myoclonic seizures involve sudden, brief jerks or twitches of muscles and may occur in various types of epilepsy. They can be an isolated occurrence or part of a more complex seizure disorder. Tonic-clonic seizures are among the most recognized forms of epilepsy, involving a combination of muscle stiffness (tonic phase) followed by rhythmic muscle contractions (clonic phase). They often lead to a postictal state where the individual may experience confusion and fatigue. Understanding that all these subtypes are categorized under epilepsy highlights the diversity of seizure presentations associated with this neurological condition. Each type varies in its clinical manifestation but shares the commonality of being classified under the umbrella of epilepsy, emphasizing the range of symptoms that can occur within this disorder.