A nurse is reinforcing teaching about methylphenidate (Ritalin) with the parents of a school-age child who has ADHD. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
"You should give your child's last daily dose of the medication before 6 o'clock in the evening."
"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."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "You should give your child's last daily dose of the medication before 6 o'clock in the evening." Methylphenidate is a stimulant, and giving it too late in the day can cause insomnia. Administering the last dose before 6 PM helps minimize sleep disturbances.
B. "You will need to give your child the medication after meals." Methylphenidate is typically given before meals to enhance its absorption and effectiveness. Taking it after meals is not recommended as it can delay absorption.
C. "You will need to have your child's blood glucose level checked monthly." There is no need for regular blood glucose monitoring unless the child has other conditions like diabetes. Methylphenidate does not typically affect blood glucose levels.
D. "You should not give your child the medication on weekends." Continuous use of methylphenidate is generally recommended to provide consistent symptom control, including on weekends. “Drug holidays” may be considered in specific cases but should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Heart rate 110/min: A heart rate of 110 beats per minute is within the normal range for a 4-year-old child. The typical heart rate for this age is between 80 to 120 beats per minute.
B. Capillary refill greater than 3 seconds: Capillary refill time should be less than 2 seconds in a healthy child. A refill time greater than 3 seconds may indicate poor perfusion or dehydration, which is abnormal.
C. Weight gain of 0.9 kg (2 lb) in a year: A weight gain of 2 pounds in a year is below the expected range for a 4-year-old. Children in this age group typically gain around 4-5 pounds per year as they grow.
D. Respiratory rate 32/min: The normal respiratory rate for a 4-year-old child is typically between 20 to 30 breaths per minute. A rate of 32/min is slightly elevated and may indicate respiratory distress or other issues.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Scoliosis: Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, commonly detected during routine physical exams in school-aged children and adolescents. This is the correct diagnosis for the described symptom.
B. Ankylosis: Ankylosis refers to joint stiffness or immobility due to fusion of the bones, not a lateral curvature of the spine. It is typically associated with conditions like ankylosing spondylitis and does not describe a spinal curvature.
C. Kyphosis: Kyphosis involves an abnormal forward curvature of the spine, often resulting in a hunchback appearance. It is not the same as a lateral curvature and thus does not fit the description given.
D. Lordosis: Lordosis is characterized by an exaggerated inward curve of the lower spine, commonly referred to as swayback. It does not involve lateral curvature and therefore is not relevant to the described condition.
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