A nurse is providing instructions about methylphenidate (Ritalin) to the parents of a school-age child who has ADHD. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
You will need to give your child the medication after meals.
You will need to have your child’s blood glucose level checked monthly.
You should not give your child the medication on weekends.
You should give your child’s last daily dose of the medication before 6 o’clock in the evening.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is a medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is not necessary to give the medication after meals. The medication can be taken with or without food. However, some people find that taking it with food can help prevent stomach upset.
Choice B rationale
Regular blood glucose level checks are not typically required when a child is taking methylphenidate. This medication does not have a significant impact on blood sugar levels.
Choice C rationale
It is not generally recommended to skip doses of methylphenidate on weekends. Consistent medication administration is important for managing ADHD symptoms. However, the prescribing doctor may sometimes recommend a “drug holiday” or break from the medication. This should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Choice D rationale
This is the correct answer. Methylphenidate is a stimulant, and taking it later in the day can cause insomnia or trouble sleeping. Therefore, it is often recommended that the last dose of the medication be given before 6 o’clock in the evening to minimize sleep disturbances.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The symptoms described by the parent - projectile vomiting followed by hunger - could indicate a serious condition such as pyloric stenosis, which is a narrowing of the opening from the stomach to the small intestine. This condition can lead to severe dehydration and requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
While burping can help to relieve gas and minor stomach discomfort, it would not address the underlying issue causing the projectile vomiting. This advice might be appropriate for a baby with simple colic or gas, but not for the symptoms described.
Choice C rationale
While oral rehydrating solutions can help to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, they do not address the underlying cause of the projectile vomiting. Furthermore, if the baby is vomiting frequently, they may not be able to keep down the solution.
Choice D rationale
Switching formulas can sometimes help babies who have allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients in their current formula. However, the symptoms described are not typical of a formula intolerance or allergy. Moreover, switching formulas without seeking medical advice can potentially lead to other complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While maintaining a saline-lock can be important for administering medications or fluids, it is not the priority action. The nurse’s priority should be to assess the child’s condition and intervene to prevent complications.
Choice B rationale
A no-salt-added diet may be recommended for some children with acute glomerulonephritis to help manage fluid balance and blood pressure. However, this is not the priority action. The nurse’s priority should be to assess the child’s condition and intervene to prevent complications.
Choice C rationale
This is the correct answer. Checking the child’s weight daily is a priority action because weight changes can indicate fluid retention or loss, which can affect kidney function. Regular weight checks can help guide treatment decisions and monitor the effectiveness of interventions.
Choice D rationale
Educating the parents about potential complications is important, but it is not the priority action. The nurse’s priority should be to assess the child’s condition and intervene to prevent complications.
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