Sedative-hypnotic
CNS
100

A client in the ED requires sedation for a minor procedure. Their medical history includes respiratory depression. Which sedative-hypnotic medication should be prioritized to minimize respiratory compromise? 

Ketamine 

Etomidate

Propofol  

Midazolam

Etomidate

Etomidate has minimal respiratory depression effects and is suitable for clients with respiratory concerns.  

100

A client with Parkinson’s disease reports consistent drooling and difficulty swallowing pills. Which medication regimen adjustment may address this symptom?

Adding propranolol for symptomatic management 

Substituting levodopa-carbidopa with amantadine therapy 

Increasing the frequency of levodopa-carbidopa dosing 

Switching to an orally disintegrating form of levodopa-carbidopa  

Switching to an orally disintegrating form of levodopa-carbidopa 

Orally disintegrating forms dissolve on contact with saliva and eliminate the need for swallowing pills, which can reduce the aspiration risk associated with dysphagia.

200

Which sedative-hypnotic would be most appropriate for a client with a history of epilepsy and why? 

Hydroxyzine 

Eszopiclone 

Phenobarbital 

Diazepam

Diazepam 

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine effective in treating seizures and anxiety, making it ideal for clients with epilepsy.

200

A client is prescribed valproic acid for seizure control but presents with elevated liver enzymes during routine labs. What is the nurse's priority action? 

Encourage the client to increase their fluid intake 

Immediately report the results to the healthcare provider

Administer acetylcysteine to reverse liver damage 

Continue administering the medication as prescribed

Immediately report the results to the healthcare provider 

Valproic acid can cause hepatotoxicity, and elevated liver enzymes require immediate evaluation by a healthcare provider to prevent further liver damage.

300

When considering sedation for a client undergoing surgery, which medication requires careful monitoring due to its potential for causing significant respiratory depression?

Buspirone  

Barbiturates

Lorazepam 

Ketamine  

Barbiturates 

Barbiturates are powerful respiratory depressants, requiring close monitoring in anesthesia settings.

300

A client with multiple sclerosis is receiving baclofen for muscle spasticity. What adverse effect should the nurse prioritize monitoring for? 

Nephrotoxicity 

Blood dyscrasia

Hypertension 

Respiratory depression  

Respiratory depression 

Baclofen can depress the central nervous system and cause respiratory depression, especially at higher dosages or in clients sensitive to the medication.

400

A client who struggles with insomnia is prescribed a hypnotic medication. Which benzodiazepine-like medication would be most appropriate? 

Phenobarbital 

Gabapentin 

Diazepam

Zaleplon  

Zaleplon

Zaleplon is benzodiazepine-like and effective for helping clients fall asleep, ideal for treating insomnia.

400

A client with a history of epilepsy is prescribed phenytoin. Which client teaching point is most critical to emphasize?

Expect skin discoloration as a normal side effect 

Double up on missed doses to prevent seizures 

Brush and floss your teeth daily to minimize gum problems

Take the medication with antacids to reduce stomach upset

Brush and floss your teeth daily to minimize gum problems 

Phenytoin can cause gingival hyperplasia, and good oral hygiene is necessary to reduce this risk.

500

A client receives etomidate for anesthetic induction. Which physiological parameter requires close monitoring post-administration? 

Glucose Levels

Oxygen Saturation 

Cortisol Levels

Heart Rate  

Cortisol Levels

Etomidate can suppress adrenal function, affecting cortisol production, thus requiring monitoring.  

500

A client reports restlessness and insomnia after starting a CNS stimulant for ADHD. What is the nurse’s best action? 

Instruct the client to skip every other dose. 

Discontinue the medication immediately. 

Advise the client to consume caffeine to alleviate symptoms. 

Recommend taking the last dose earlier in the day.

Recommend taking the last dose earlier in the day. 

Taking CNS stimulants earlier in the day can help prevent insomnia and restlessness at night.

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