ATI RN
Central Nervous System Stimulants and Related Drugs NCLEX Questions Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient taking lorazepam asks the nurse how this drug works. The nurse should respond by stating that it is a benzodiazepine that acts by which mechanism?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Depressing the central nervous system. Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, works by enhancing the inhibitory effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter in the brain. This results in decreased neuronal excitability, leading to sedative, anxiolytic, and muscle relaxant effects. Option A is similar but lacks specificity about the neurotransmitter involved. Option B is incorrect as lorazepam does not typically lead to loss of consciousness at therapeutic doses. Option D is incorrect as lorazepam primarily affects the central nervous system and does not specifically target motor and sensory activities.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is teaching a patient about zolpidem. Which is important for the nurse to include in the teaching of this drug?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because zolpidem is recommended for short-term treatment of insomnia, typically for less than 10 days. Prolonged use can lead to dependence and tolerance. Choice A is incorrect as the maximum dose is usually 10 mg/day for most patients. Choice C is incorrect as zolpidem can be used in older adults but caution is needed due to increased risk of side effects. Choice D is incorrect as the usual starting dose of zolpidem is 5 mg at bedtime, not 15 mg. It's crucial for the nurse to emphasize the short-term nature of zolpidem use to prevent potential adverse effects.
Question 3 of 5
Phenytoin has been prescribed for a patient with seizures. The nurse should include which appropriate nursing intervention in the plan of care?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitor complete blood count levels for early detection of blood dyscrasias. This is important because phenytoin can cause blood disorders, so monitoring CBC levels can help detect any abnormalities early. Choice A is incorrect because an phenytoin level of 18 mcg/mL is within therapeutic range. Choice C is incorrect as vigorous tooth brushing can irritate gums due to phenytoin's side effects. Choice D is incorrect as passing pinkish-red or reddish-brown urine is a common side effect of phenytoin and does not necessarily indicate a need to stop the drug immediately.
Question 4 of 5
When administering phenytoin, the nurse realizes more teaching is needed if the patient makes which statement?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because phenytoin should be taken either with food or after meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Taking it on an empty stomach may lead to increased side effects or decreased drug absorption. Choice A is correct as shaking the oral suspension ensures uniform distribution of the medication. Choice B is correct as alcohol can interact with phenytoin and increase side effects. Choice D is correct as phenytoin can cause gum overgrowth, necessitating regular dental checkups.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following assessment findings could the nurse see in a patient with Parkinson disease? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Muscle rigidity. In Parkinson's disease, muscle rigidity is a common assessment finding due to the increased muscle tone. This results in stiffness and resistance to passive movement. The other choices are incorrect: A is incorrect because Parkinson's disease typically has a gradual onset, not abrupt. C is incorrect as tremors in Parkinson's disease are typically voluntary and rhythmic, not involuntary. D is incorrect as bradykinesia, or slowness of movement, is also a common finding in Parkinson's disease, but muscle rigidity is more specific to the disease.