ATI RN
Central Nervous System Stimulants and Related Drugs NCLEX Questions Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse anticipates that the health care provider will prescribe which medication to treat a patient with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Glatiramer acetate. This medication is commonly used to treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis by reducing the frequency of relapses. It works by modulating the immune system to prevent inflammation and damage to the nervous system. Ambenonium (A) and Pyridostigmine (B) are used to treat myasthenia gravis, a neuromuscular disorder, not multiple sclerosis. Mitoxantrone (C) is used for aggressive forms of multiple sclerosis, not for relapsing-remitting MS. In summary, Glatiramer acetate is the correct choice for treating relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis due to its mechanism of action and proven efficacy.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is beginning to take cyclobenzaprine for treatment of acute back spasms. Which interventions will the nurse include in the care of this patient? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inform the patient not to abruptly stop taking the muscle relaxant. Abruptly stopping cyclobenzaprine can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Gradual tapering is necessary to prevent adverse effects. Choice A is incorrect as cyclobenzaprine can be taken with or without food. Choice C is incorrect as alcohol should be avoided while taking muscle relaxants. Choice D is irrelevant to the question and not related to the care of a patient taking cyclobenzaprine.
Question 3 of 5
A 3-year-old boy was brought to the emergency department with dilated pupils, dry mouth, red and dry skin, and a body temperature of 103.4°F. Vital signs were blood pressure 90/50 mm Hg, pulse 122 bpm, respirations 24/min. The central and peripheral symptoms of this patient were most likely mediated by the blockade of which of the following receptors?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Muscarinic receptors. The symptoms described (dilated pupils, dry mouth, red and dry skin, increased body temperature, hypotension, tachycardia, and tachypnea) are consistent with anticholinergic toxicity. Anticholinergic drugs block muscarinic receptors, leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. Option A) Noradrenergic receptors are not primarily responsible for the symptoms described. Option B) Nicotinic receptors are not involved in the presentation of anticholinergic toxicity. Option D) Dopaminergic receptors do not directly mediate the symptoms seen in this case. Educationally, understanding the effects of central nervous system stimulants and related drugs on various receptor systems is crucial for healthcare professionals. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of toxicity, like anticholinergic toxicity in this case, is vital for prompt intervention and patient safety. Developing proficiency in pharmacology and receptor pharmacodynamics enhances clinical decision-making and ensures optimal patient care.
Question 4 of 5
A 46-year-old woman complained of daytime sleepiness after starting an antihistamine for allergic rhinitis. The physician explained that drowsiness was most likely due to inhibition of the action of histaminergic neurons in the brain. Which of the following brain regions was most likely involved in the adverse effect of this drug?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Nucleus basalis of Meynert. The Nucleus basalis of Meynert is a structure in the basal forebrain that contains cholinergic neurons. These neurons play a crucial role in promoting wakefulness and attention by releasing acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter for arousal. Antihistamines, by inhibiting histamine action in the brain, can indirectly affect the cholinergic activity in the Nucleus basalis of Meynert, leading to drowsiness and daytime sleepiness. Now, let's discuss why the other options are incorrect: A) Nucleus tractus solitarius: This nucleus is involved in autonomic functions, such as regulating cardiovascular and respiratory responses, and is not directly related to the sedative effects of antihistamines. B) Caudatum: A part of the basal ganglia involved in motor control and procedural learning, not associated with the sedative effects seen in this case. C) Hippocampus: Primarily responsible for memory formation and spatial navigation, not directly related to the drowsiness caused by antihistamines. Educational Context: Understanding the neuropharmacology of central nervous system stimulants and related drugs is crucial for healthcare professionals to anticipate and manage potential side effects in patients. Knowing how different brain regions and neurotransmitters are affected by medications helps in explaining and addressing adverse reactions effectively. This knowledge is especially important for nurses, pharmacists, and physicians who prescribe, administer, or counsel patients on these medications.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following pairs of neurotransmitters are thought to be most involved in seizure disorders?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate neuronal excitability, while glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter that promotes neuronal activity. Imbalance between these two neurotransmitters can lead to seizure disorders. Therefore, the pair of neurotransmitters most involved in seizure disorders is GABA and glutamate.