After an adolescent diagnosed with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) begins methylphenidate (Ritalin) therapy, a nurse notes that the adolescent loses 10 pounds in a 2-month period. What is the best explanation for this weight loss?
Side effects of Ritalin cause nausea; therefore, caloric intake is decreased.
Increased ability to concentrate allows the client to focus on activities rather than food.
Hyperactivity seen in ADHD causes increased caloric expenditure.
The pharmacological action of Ritalin causes a decrease in appetite.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Side effects of Ritalin cause nausea; therefore, caloric intake is decreased: Nausea can occur as a side effect, but appetite suppression is a more common and direct cause of weight loss with methylphenidate. Nausea alone does not fully account for gradual weight changes over months.
B. Increased ability to concentrate allows the client to focus on activities rather than food: Improved concentration may lead to reduced distractions, but the primary mechanism for weight loss is pharmacological appetite suppression rather than distraction from eating.
C. Hyperactivity seen in ADHD causes increased caloric expenditure: While hyperactivity may burn additional calories, weight loss observed after starting methylphenidate is more strongly linked to decreased appetite than baseline activity levels.
D. The pharmacological action of Ritalin causes a decrease in appetite: Methylphenidate stimulates the central nervous system, which commonly reduces hunger and caloric intake. Appetite suppression is a well-documented side effect that can lead to measurable weight loss in adolescents.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C"]
Explanation
A. Alzheimer’s disease does not develop suddenly: Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurocognitive disorder with an insidious onset and gradual decline over months to years. A sudden change in cognition over one week is inconsistent with its typical disease course. Acute confusion suggests an alternative diagnosis such as delirium.
B. Dementia and cognitive dullness are expected in those of advanced age: Normal aging may involve mild forgetfulness, but dementia is not an expected or normal consequence of aging. Assuming cognitive decline is age-related risks missing reversible or treatable causes.
C. The symptoms presented could be due to an underlying medical condition: Acute mental confusion can result from infections, metabolic imbalances, medication effects, or dehydration. These conditions commonly cause delirium, which can mimic dementia but is potentially reversible.
D. Symptom severity of Alzheimer’s disease usually gets better as the day progresses: Alzheimer’s symptoms often worsen later in the day, a pattern known as sundowning. Improvement as the day progresses is not characteristic of the disease.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. A means of self-punishment: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) may be used to express self-directed anger, guilt, or shame. Individuals may engage in cutting as a way to punish themselves when experiencing intense negative emotions. This behavior is often linked to low self-worth and emotional dysregulation.
B. A sign of suicidal ideation, plan and intent: NSSI is defined by the absence of suicidal intent, even though it may coexist with suicidal thoughts in some individuals. The primary purpose is emotional regulation rather than ending life. Presence of scars alone does not indicate a suicide plan or intent.
C. A form of ineffective coping for emotional distress: Cutting is commonly used as a maladaptive coping strategy to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety, anger, or numbness. The behavior may provide temporary relief but reinforces unhealthy coping patterns. It does not resolve the underlying emotional distress.
D. A means to communicate pain to others: Some individuals use self-injury as a way to externalize internal pain when they struggle to verbalize emotions. Visible injuries may function as a nonverbal signal of distress or a request for help. This reflects difficulty with emotional expression rather than attention-seeking behavior.
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