A nurse is providing teaching to the parent of a child who has a new prescription for methylphenidate. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
"Monitor your child for excessive sleepiness."
"Administer the medication with a caffeinated beverage."
"Administer the second dose of the medication at lunch time."
"Monitor your child for weight gain."
The Correct Answer is C
A. "Monitor your child for excessive sleepiness."
Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It typically causes insomnia or decreased need for sleep rather than excessive sleepiness. This option is incorrect, as it does not align with the expected side effects of the medication.
B. "Administer the medication with a caffeinated beverage."
Caffeine is also a stimulant, and combining it with methylphenidate could increase the risk of side effects such as increased heart rate, anxiety, or jitteriness. This instruction is incorrect and unsafe.
C. "Administer the second dose of the medication at lunch time."
Methylphenidate is usually given in divided doses, with the second dose often administered at lunchtime. This timing helps maintain therapeutic levels during the school day while minimizing the risk of insomnia. This option is correct and appropriate for managing the medication.
D. "Monitor your child for weight gain."
A common side effect of methylphenidate is appetite suppression, which can lead to weight loss, not weight gain. This option is incorrect, as the nurse should instruct the parent to monitor for weight loss instead.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Reye syndrome causes fatty changes in the liver."
This statement is correct. Reye syndrome is characterized by acute non-inflammatory encephalopathy and fatty changes in the liver, which can lead to liver dysfunction and failure.
B. "Reye syndrome leads to venous thrombus formation."
This statement is incorrect. Reye syndrome primarily affects the brain and liver, leading to cerebral edema and liver dysfunction. It does not typically involve venous thrombus formation.
C. "Reye syndrome is associated with misuse of acetaminophen."
This statement is incorrect. While the exact cause of Reye syndrome is not fully understood, it is not associated with the misuse of acetaminophen. However, there is a well-established association between Reye syndrome and the use of aspirin (salicylates) during viral infections, particularly in children and adolescents.
D. "Reye syndrome is linked to decreased serum ammonia levels."
This statement is incorrect. Reye syndrome is associated with increased serum ammonia levels due to liver dysfunction and impaired ammonia metabolism. Elevated ammonia levels can contribute to the encephalopathy seen in Reye syndrome.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Place the child in a room with bright fluorescent lighting.
This option is not appropriate because bright fluorescent lighting can be uncomfortable and potentially aggravate symptoms such as headache or sensitivity to light, which are common after a head injury. Therefore, it is not included in the plan of care.
B. Initiate seizure precautions for the child.
This intervention is appropriate because children with head injuries are at an increased risk of seizures. Seizure precautions may include ensuring a safe environment, such as padding the sides of the bed, removing any objects that could cause harm during a seizure, and closely monitoring the child's neurological status for signs of seizure activity.
C. Use the COMFORT scale to rate the child's pain.
While assessing and managing pain is important, the COMFORT scale may not be the most appropriate tool for evaluating pain in a child with a head injury. The nurse should use a pain assessment tool that is specifically designed for pediatric patients and is suitable for assessing pain in children with head injuries.
D. Suction the child's nares to determine the presence of fluid.
Suctioning the child's nares may be indicated if there are concerns about airway patency or respiratory secretions. However, it is not a routine intervention for all children with head injuries. The nurse should assess the child's respiratory status and use suctioning only if necessary based on clinical findings.
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