A nurse is teaching a client who has insomnia about zolpidem, a Schedule IV medication. The nurse should include which of the following information in the teaching?
The medication should be taken only as needed for sleep.
The medication should be taken with food to enhance absorption.
The medication should be tapered off gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
The medication should be avoided if the client has a history of substance abuse.
The Correct Answer is C
Correct answer: c) The medication should be tapered off gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Rationale: Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic medication that acts on the central nervous system to induce sleep. It has a low potential for abuse and dependence, but it can still cause withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and seizures if discontinued abruptly. Therefore, the medication should be tapered off gradually under the supervision of a prescriber.
Incorrect choices:
a) The medication should be taken only as needed for sleep.: Zolpidem should be taken regularly as prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia, not on an as-needed basis.
b) The medication should be taken with food to enhance absorption.: Zolpidem should be taken on an empty stomach to facilitate its onset of action, which is within 15 to 30 minutes.
d) The medication should be avoided if the client has a history of substance abuse.: Although zolpidem has a low potential for abuse and dependence, it can still interact with other substances such as alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines, which can increase the risk of respiratory depression and overdose. Therefore, the client should inform the prescriber of any history of substance abuse and use Zolpidem with caution.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Correct answer: d) All of the above.
Rationale: The nurse should follow all of these actions to ensure the safe and legal administration of controlled substances. These actions help prevent medication errors, diversion, and misuse of controlled substances.
Incorrect choices:
a) Verify the client's identity using two identifiers before administering the medication.: This is correct but not comprehensive as it does not include other actions that are required for controlled substances.
b) Document the administration of the medication on a separate controlled substance record.: This is correct but not comprehensive as it does not include other actions that are required for controlled substances.
c) Count the remaining tablets of oxycodone with another nurse at the end of each shift.: This is correct but not comprehensive as it does not include other actions that are required for controlled substances.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Correct answer: d) All of the above.
Rationale: The nurse should provide all of these responses to educate the client about the risks and alternatives of taking zolpidem, a controlled substance. Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to physical and psychological dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms, which can be dangerous and unpleasant. Changing the medication may be necessary if zolpidem is not effective for the client's insomnia, as there may be other underlying causes or better options for treatment. Trying some nonpharmacological methods can also help improve sleep quality and reduce reliance on medications.
Incorrect choices:
a) "You should not take more than the prescribed dose because it can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms.": This is correct but not comprehensive as it does not include other responses that are helpful for the client.
b) "You should talk to your provider about changing your medication because zolpidem is not effective for you.": This is correct but not comprehensive as it does not include other responses that are helpful for the client.
c) "You should try some nonpharmacological methods to improve your sleep quality, such as relaxation techniques and avoiding caffeine.": This is correct but not comprehensive as it does not include other responses that are helpful for the client.
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