A client is admitted to the emergency department with severe recurrent convulsive seizures. What drug should the nurse expect to be ordered as first-line treatment for use in emergency control of status epilepticus?

A. Pregabalin: Pregabalin is used for partial seizures and neuropathic pain but is not effective for acute seizure control. It has a slower onset and is not appropriate for emergency treatment of status epilepticus. B. Valproic acid: Valproic acid may be used as a second-line agent in status epilepticus if benzodiazepines fail, but it is not typically the first drug given in emergencies due to its slower onset and administration requirements. C. Diazepam: Diazepam is a fast-acting benzodiazepine that is effective for immediate control of seizures in status epilepticus. It can be given intravenously or rectally and acts quickly to suppress neuronal activity. D. Gabapentin: Gabapentin is used for chronic seizure management and neuropathic pain but lacks rapid onset and efficacy for acute seizure emergencies. It is not recommended for the emergency control of status epilepticus.