A child diagnosed with ADHD shows hyperactivity, aggression, and impaired play. The health care provider prescribed amphetamine salts (Adderall). The nurse should monitor for which desired behavior?
Increased expressiveness in communication with others.
Tolerates social interactions for short periods without disruption or frustration.
Improved abilities to participate in cooperative play with other children.
Abilities to identify anxiety and implement self-control strategies.
The Correct Answer is C
A. While communication may improve indirectly, the primary goal of stimulant therapy for ADHD is to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity, not directly increase verbal expressiveness.
B. This may be a secondary benefit, but the main desired outcome is improved behavioral control during social interactions, particularly in play.
C. Stimulant medications like amphetamine salts help the child control impulsive behavior, reduce hyperactivity, and improve attention, allowing participation in cooperative play and structured activities.
D. Self-regulation skills develop with behavioral interventions and therapy, not directly from medication alone.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","F","I"]
Explanation
A. Blood pressure – Within normal range (115/76 mm Hg). No immediate concern.
B. Lithium level – 1.7 mEq/L is above the therapeutic range (0.8–1.2). Toxicity is likely, especially with the client’s symptoms (tremor, confusion, GI upset). Requires urgent follow-up.
C. Sodium level – 128 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia. Low sodium increases the risk for lithium toxicity because lithium and sodium compete for renal reabsorption.
D. WBC count – Within normal range (7,000/mm³).
E. TSH level – Mildly elevated (6). Suggests hypothyroidism (a side effect of lithium) but not immediately life-threatening. Requires follow-up, but not urgent.
F. BUN level –Elevated at 30 mg/dL (normal 10–20). Indicates impaired renal function, which reduces lithium clearance and increases toxicity risk.
G. Levothyroxine dosage – No immediate safety issue noted; managed long term.
H. Acetaminophen – Daily 325 mg is safe; not a concern.
I. Lithium dosage – Current dose (600 mg BID) is likely contributing to toxicity and must be reassessed immediately.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Paroxetine (Paxil) is an SSRI antidepressant and is not a first-line treatment for ADHD.
B. Imipramine (Trofanil) – This tricyclic antidepressant is rarely used for ADHD and is not considered standard therapy.
C. Carbamazepine (Tegretol) – This is an anticonvulsant used for seizure disorders and mood stabilization, not ADHD.
D. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is a central nervous system stimulant and is the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. It helps increase attention span, decrease impulsivity, and reduce hyperactivity, which is why teaching for parents would focus on this medication.
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