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."
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["2"]
Explanation
Desired dose rate = 0.6 mg/hr
Available concentration = 50 mg / 150 mL
- Calculate the concentration in mg/mL:
Concentration (mg/mL) = 50 mg / 150 mL
= 1/3 mg/mL
- Calculate the flow rate in mL/hr:
Flow rate (mL/hr) = Desired dose rate (mg/hr) / Concentration (mg/mL)
= 0.6 mg/hr / (1/3 mg/mL)
= 0.6 × 3 mL/hr
Flow rate (mL/hr) = 1.8 mL/hr
- Round to the nearest whole number:
= 2 mL/hr
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Montelukast: This leukotriene receptor antagonist is used for long-term asthma control and prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm. It is not effective for treating acute asthma attacks due to its delayed onset of action.
B. Salmeterol: This is a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) used for maintenance therapy in asthma. It has a slower onset and should never be used for rapid symptom relief during an acute attack, as doing so can delay appropriate treatment.
C. Albuterol: Albuterol is a short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) that provides rapid bronchodilation and is the first-line rescue medication for aborting an acute asthma attack. It works within minutes to relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow.
D. Beclomethasone: This inhaled corticosteroid is used for long-term asthma management by reducing airway inflammation. It is not effective in acute situations because it does not provide immediate bronchodilation.
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