Question 1

Which statement best explains the action of the prescriptions used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Accepted Answer

Medications used to treat ADHD, such as stimulants, work by increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, notably dopamine and norepinephrine. This activation enhances attention and focus, rather than blocking neurotransmitters or reducing their levels.

Question 2

The nurse is preparing to assess an older adult for depression. Which questions should the nurse include in the assessment? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

These questions indirectly assess factors that can contribute to depression, such as social isolation (A), self-care neglect (B), substance use (C), and potential stressors in living situations (D). Directly asking if someone is feeling depressed (E) might not always yield accurate information, as individuals might not recognize their feelings as depression or might be reluctant to admit to depression due to stigma.

Question 3

The nurse is providing client teaching about the side effects of amitriptyline (Elavil). Which information should the nurse include in the teaching to promote prescription adherence? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

Amitriptyline (Elavil) can cause anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth and dry eyes. Using ice chips, chewing gum, or hard candy can help alleviate dry mouth, and avoiding alcohol-based mouthwash can prevent further drying. Using "dry eye" drops can help with eye dryness. These strategies are aimed at managing side effects to promote adherence to the medication. Requesting a prescription from a different manufacturer does not address the side effects of the medication.

Question 4

Which symptoms should the nurse assess a client for who is at risk for mania? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

Decreased sleep, weight loss, and increased talkativeness are common symptoms of mania. Mania is characterized by an elevated mood, which can lead to reduced need for sleep, more energy (potentially resulting in weight loss), and more frequent or pressured speech. Sluggish activity and muscle pain are not typical symptoms of mania; they are more likely associated with depression or physical health issues.

Question 5

A client asks the nurse what causes bipolar disorder. Which neurotransmitters should the nurse include when discussing the manic phase of the disorder? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

The answer of A client asks the nurse what causes...

Question 6

A client asks the nurse which types of therapies are most helpful for depression. Which therapies should the nurse plan to discuss with the client? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

The answer of A client asks the nurse which types...

Question 7

Which assessment findings should the nurse associated with a risk for suicide? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

The client's statement that "suicide is always an option," a previous unsuccessful suicide attempt, dissatisfaction with prescribed medication, and requests for pain medication and sleeping aids are all concerning findings associated with a risk for suicide. Expressing interest in meeting with friends more often may actually be a positive sign and not necessarily associated with suicidality.

Question 8

Which should the nurse recognize are the traditionally prescribed drug classifications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Accepted Answer

The traditionally prescribed drug classifications used to treat ADHD are CNS stimulants.

Question 9

Which prescription should the nurse recognize would most benefit a client experiencing periods of mania and depression?

Accepted Answer

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) is a mood stabilizer that is commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. It can help to reduce the severity of manic episodes and prevent depressive episodes. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), not bipolar disorder. Amitriptyline (Elavil) is a tricyclic antidepressant that may worsen manic episodes. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is a stimulant that may worsen symptoms of mania.

Question 10

A parent of a child pharmacologically treated for ADHD asks the nurse to explain a "drug holiday." Which information should the nurse provide about the treatment option? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

Accepted Answer

A drug holiday is a period of time when medication is temporarily discontinued or reduced. This may be done to reduce dependence on medication or to assess if the patient still requires medication. It is important to discuss the possibility of a drug holiday with a healthcare provider before attempting one. The scheduling of a drug holiday needs to be carefully planned to prevent potential side effects or withdrawal symptoms. It is not recommended to hold doses of medication for several days without first discussing the option with a healthcare provider.

Quiz 16: Drugs for Emotional Mood and Behavioral Disorders

Which statement best explains the action of the prescriptions used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) ?