A nurse is teaching the parents of a child who has ADHD about methylphenidate. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
This medication might increase the amount of saliva your child produces.
Administer the medication at bedtime.
Your child might gain weight while taking this medication.
Restrict your child’s intake of caffeine while she is taking this medication.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is d. Restrict your child’s intake of caffeine while she is taking this medication.
Choice A Reason:
This statement is incorrect. Methylphenidate does not typically increase saliva production. In fact, it is more commonly associated with dry mouth as a side effect. Therefore, informing parents that the medication might increase saliva production would be misleading and not based on the known side effects of the drug.
Choice B Reason:
This statement is incorrect. Methylphenidate should generally be administered in the morning or early afternoon to avoid insomnia, as it is a stimulant and can interfere with sleep if taken too late in the day. Administering the medication at bedtime would likely cause sleep disturbances, which is counterproductive for managing ADHD symptoms.
Choice C Reason:
This statement is incorrect. Methylphenidate is more commonly associated with weight loss rather than weight gain. The medication can suppress appetite, leading to reduced food intake and potential weight loss. Therefore, it is important to monitor the child’s weight and nutritional intake while on the medication, but weight gain is not a typical concern.
Choice D Reason:
This statement is correct. Caffeine is a stimulant and can exacerbate the side effects of methylphenidate, such as increased heart rate, jitteriness, and anxiety. Therefore, it is advisable to restrict the child’s intake of caffeine while taking this medication to avoid these potential interactions and side effects. This includes limiting consumption of caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, and certain sodas.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Conduct Disorder
Choice A Reason: Childhood Depression
Childhood depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. Symptoms can include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. While depression can lead to behavioral issues, it is less likely to be associated with the specific behaviors described in the scenario, such as running away and being abusive towards parents. These behaviors are more indicative of a disruptive behavior disorder rather than a mood disorder.
Choice B Reason: Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is characterized by a pattern of angry, irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, or vindictiveness. Children with ODD often lose their temper, argue with adults, and refuse to comply with rules. While ODD can involve some of the behaviors described, such as being abusive towards parents, it typically does not include the more severe behaviors like running away or engaging in illegal activities such as prostitution. Therefore, ODD is not the most fitting diagnosis in this case.
Choice C Reason: Conduct Disorder
Conduct Disorder is a more severe behavioral disorder characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates the rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms or rules. Symptoms include aggression towards people and animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, and serious violations of rules, such as running away from home and engaging in illegal activities like prostitution. Given the behaviors described in the scenario, Conduct Disorder is the most appropriate diagnosis. Adolescents with Conduct Disorder often exhibit a lack of remorse or guilt and may have a history of problematic behaviors that escalate over time.
Choice D Reason: Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. While individuals with ASD may exhibit challenging behaviors, these are typically related to difficulties in understanding social norms and communication rather than intentional defiance or rule-breaking. The behaviors described in the scenario, such as running away and engaging in prostitution, are not characteristic of ASD, making it an unlikely diagnosis in this context.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Tell me more about what unpleasant effects you have been experiencing
Explanation of Choices
Choice A Reason: Tell Me More About What Unpleasant Effects You Have Been Experiencing
This response is the most appropriate because it opens a dialogue between the nurse, the client, and the parent. Understanding the specific side effects the client is experiencing allows the nurse to gather detailed information, which is crucial for assessing the situation accurately. This approach shows empathy and concern for the client’s well-being and can help identify whether the side effects are manageable or if an alternative treatment plan is needed. It also ensures that the client feels heard and supported.
Choice B Reason: Stop Taking the Medication Immediately
Advising the client to stop taking the medication immediately is not appropriate without a thorough assessment and consultation with the prescribing physician. Abruptly discontinuing ADHD medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a resurgence of ADHD symptoms, which can negatively impact the client’s daily functioning and overall health. Medication changes should always be made under medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Choice C Reason: I’ll Get the Physician to Discuss This Situation
While involving the physician is an important step, this response alone does not address the immediate concerns of the client and parent. It is essential for the nurse to first understand the specific issues before referring to the physician. This ensures that the physician has all the necessary information to make an informed decision about the client’s treatment plan. Additionally, this response may come across as dismissive if not coupled with an initial assessment by the nurse.
Choice D Reason: It’s Important to Take the Medication as Prescribed
While it is true that taking medication as prescribed is important, this response does not acknowledge the client’s and parent’s concerns about side effects. It may come across as dismissive and could damage the trust between the client, parent, and healthcare provider. Addressing the side effects and exploring possible solutions or alternatives is crucial for maintaining adherence to the treatment plan and ensuring the client’s well-being.
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