A preceptor is educating a new graduate nurse about barbiturates. The preceptor states, "Barbiturates were once widely used but are now rarely prescribed." Which follow-up statement by the preceptor best explains why barbiturates are not as commonly used today?

"Barbiturates carry a higher risk of dependence and overdose compared to other sedative-hypnotics."

"Barbiturates are more expensive than newer medications like benzodiazepines, which limits their use."

"Barbiturates have been replaced because they are less effective than over-the-counter sleep aids."

"Barbiturates are safer for long-term use compared to other sedatives, but they have limited availability."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. "Barbiturates carry a higher risk of dependence and overdose compared to other sedative-hypnotics.": Barbiturates have a narrow therapeutic index, and overdose can lead to fatal respiratory depression. Their high abuse potential and severe withdrawal symptoms make them less favorable than safer alternatives like benzodiazepines.
B. "Barbiturates are more expensive than newer medications like benzodiazepines, which limits their use.": Cost is not the primary reason for their reduced use. In fact, many barbiturates are inexpensive. Their safety profile and high risk of fatal overdose are the major concerns.
C. "Barbiturates have been replaced because they are less effective than over-the-counter sleep aids.": Barbiturates are actually very potent sedative-hypnotics. However, their risks outweigh their benefits. OTC sleep aids are less effective but considered safer for short-term use.
D. "Barbiturates are safer for long-term use compared to other sedatives, but they have limited availability.": Barbiturates are not safer for long-term use. They are associated with tolerance, dependence, cognitive impairment, and severe withdrawal, which is why their use has been largely replaced.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Cushing's syndrome: Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome. Common features include weight gain (especially central), mood changes such as anxiety or irritability, insomnia, and physical changes like hirsutism (increased facial hair), moon face, and truncal obesity due to chronic hypercortisolism.
B. Adrenal insufficiency: This condition typically results from abrupt withdrawal of corticosteroids, leading to fatigue, hypotension, and electrolyte imbalances. It does not cause the excess cortisol-related symptoms described in this patient’s presentation.
C. Diabetes mellitus: While corticosteroids can raise blood glucose levels and increase the risk for diabetes, the described symptoms—particularly the weight distribution and hirsutism—are more indicative of Cushing’s syndrome than diabetes.
D. Dystonia: Dystonia involves involuntary muscle contractions causing repetitive movements or abnormal postures. It is not associated with the metabolic and hormonal effects caused by long-term corticosteroid use.

A. They are the nonproprietary names of drugs B. They are unique to each pharmaceutical company C. They are not used on the NCLEX D. They are always capitalized and trademarked

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. They are the nonproprietary names of drugs: Generic names are standardized names assigned by an official body such as the United States Adopted Names (USAN) Council. They are not owned by any drug company and are used universally across brands, making them the nonproprietary identifiers of medications.
B. They are unique to each pharmaceutical company: This describes brand or trade names, not generic names. Brand names vary between manufacturers, but the generic name remains the same regardless of who produces the medication.
C. They are not used on the NCLEX: Generic names are primarily used on the NCLEX to test nursing knowledge. Nurses are expected to recognize generic names, as they are the standard reference in clinical practice and reduce confusion associated with multiple brand names.
D. They are always capitalized and trademarked: Generic names are written in lowercase and are not trademarked. In contrast, brand names are capitalized and legally protected as trademarks by pharmaceutical companies.

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A preceptor is educating a new graduate nurse about barbiturates. The preceptor states, "Barbiturates were once widely used but are now rarely prescribed." Which follow-up statement by the preceptor best explains why barbiturates are not as commonly used today?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A 38-year-old female has been on corticosteroids for several months to manage severe asthma exacerbations. The patient reports weight gain, feeling anxious, experiencing insomnia, and noticing increased facial hair growth. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for these symptoms?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Which of the following statements best describes generic names of medications?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Order: Betrixaban 160 mg PO STAT Available: Refer to the med label below How many capsules will you administer? (Insert the numerical value only)

A nurse is reviewing pharmacokinetic principles. Which of the following factors most significantly affects the distribution of drugs in the body?

Which of the following are part of the 10 rights of medication administration? (Select All that Apply.)

Select whether the following drugs carry a risk of causing hyperkalemia or hypokalemia:

16 ounces =___Enter text here.mL (Fill in the blank with the numerical value only)

6 teaspoons = ­­­___mL (Fill in the blank with the numerical value only)

A patient is being started on new blood pressure medication. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide to the patient? (Select All that Apply.)