A nurse is providing instructions about methylphenidate (Ritalin) to the parents of a school-age child who has ADHD. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
You will need to give your child the medication after meals.
You will need to have your child’s blood glucose level checked monthly.
You should not give your child the medication on weekends.
You should give your child’s last daily dose of the medication before 6 o’clock in the evening.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is a medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is not necessary to give the medication after meals. The medication can be taken with or without food. However, some people find that taking it with food can help prevent stomach upset.
Choice B rationale
Regular blood glucose level checks are not typically required when a child is taking methylphenidate. This medication does not have a significant impact on blood sugar levels.
Choice C rationale
It is not generally recommended to skip doses of methylphenidate on weekends. Consistent medication administration is important for managing ADHD symptoms. However, the prescribing doctor may sometimes recommend a “drug holiday” or break from the medication. This should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Choice D rationale
This is the correct answer. Methylphenidate is a stimulant, and taking it later in the day can cause insomnia or trouble sleeping. Therefore, it is often recommended that the last dose of the medication be given before 6 o’clock in the evening to minimize sleep disturbances.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is not typically associated with acute appendicitis. In fact, tachycardia, or a faster than normal heart rate, may occur due to the body’s response to inflammation and infection.
Choice B rationale
Hyperactive bowel sounds are not a typical finding in acute appendicitis. In fact, bowel sounds may be normal or decreased due to the inflammatory process.
Choice C rationale
A white blood cell (WBC) count of 17,000/mm is higher than the normal range, indicating the presence of an infection or inflammation in the body. This is a common finding in acute appendicitis.
Choice D rationale
Pain from appendicitis is typically located in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, not the left.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, is not typically a symptom of Wilms’ tumor. It is more commonly associated with conditions that cause liver dysfunction.
Choice B rationale
An abdominal mass is one of the most common symptoms of Wilms’ tumor. Parents or healthcare providers may feel a lump or swelling in the child’s abdomen.
Choice C rationale
Swollen joints are not a typical symptom of Wilms’ tumor. They are more commonly associated with conditions that affect the joints, such as juvenile arthritis.
Choice D rationale
Diarrhea is not a typical symptom of Wilms’ tumor. It is more commonly a symptom of gastrointestinal illnesses.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.