ATI RN
Central Nervous System Stimulants and Related Drugs NCLEX Questions Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
When a 12-year-old child is prescribed methylphenidate, which is most important for the nurse to monitor?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Height and weight. Monitoring height and weight is crucial when a child is prescribed methylphenidate as it is a stimulant medication that can potentially affect growth and appetite. By regularly tracking these parameters, nurses can assess the medication's impact on the child's growth and nutritional status. Monitoring temperature (A) is not directly related to methylphenidate use. While monitoring respirations (B) is important, it is not the most critical aspect when administering methylphenidate. Monitoring intake and output (C) is important for overall hydration status but is not as specific to assessing the effects of methylphenidate on growth and nutrition.
Question 2 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 3 of 5
A patient received spinal anesthesia. Which is most important for the nurse to monitor?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hypotension and headaches. When a patient receives spinal anesthesia, monitoring for hypotension is crucial due to the vasodilation effect of the anesthesia, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. Headaches can also occur as a side effect of spinal anesthesia. Monitoring these two factors is essential in preventing complications such as inadequate perfusion or post-dural puncture headaches. A: Loss of consciousness is not a priority as spinal anesthesia does not typically affect consciousness. B: Hangover effects and dependence are not typical side effects of spinal anesthesia. D: Excitement or delirium are not common effects of spinal anesthesia.
Question 4 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 5 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.