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
While maintaining a saline-lock can be important for administering medications or fluids, it is not the priority action. The nurse’s priority should be to assess the child’s condition and intervene to prevent complications.
Choice B rationale
A no-salt-added diet may be recommended for some children with acute glomerulonephritis to help manage fluid balance and blood pressure. However, this is not the priority action. The nurse’s priority should be to assess the child’s condition and intervene to prevent complications.
Choice C rationale
This is the correct answer. Checking the child’s weight daily is a priority action because weight changes can indicate fluid retention or loss, which can affect kidney function. Regular weight checks can help guide treatment decisions and monitor the effectiveness of interventions.
Choice D rationale
Educating the parents about potential complications is important, but it is not the priority action. The nurse’s priority should be to assess the child’s condition and intervene to prevent complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D rationale
When a nurse notes the presence of bruises on a child’s arms and legs, the first action should be to obtain a detailed history. This can provide important context for the bruises and help determine whether they are likely the result of accidental injury or possible abuse.
Choice A rationale
Telling the child what will happen when the abuse is reported is not the first action a nurse should take. It is important to first gather all necessary information and report the suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities.
Choice B rationale
Requesting a social services referral is an important step when abuse is suspected, but it should come after obtaining a detailed history and reporting the suspected abuse.
Choice C rationale
Reporting the suspected abuse to the authorities is crucial when child abuse is suspected. However, it is important to first obtain a detailed history to provide as much information as possible to the authorities.
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