Author Question: A nurse is teaching a group of nurses about Parkinson's medications. The nurse is correct to state ... (Read 51 times)

azncindy619 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A nurse is teaching a group of nurses about Parkinson's medications. The nurse is correct to state that one side effect associated with pramipexole (Mirapex) that is less likely to occur with other dopamine agonists is:

a. sleep attacks.
b. dizziness.
c. hallucinations.
d. dyskinesias.

Question 2

A patient who has begun taking levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet) reports feeling lightheaded and dizzy, especially when standing up from a sitting position. What will the nurse recommend?

a. An alpha-adrenergic antagonist medication
b. Discussing amantadine with the prescriber
c. Increasing the salt and water intake
d. Taking a drug holiday

laurnthompson · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
A few patients taking pramipexole have experienced sleep attacks, or an overwhelming and irresistible sleepiness that comes on without warning. Dizziness, hallucinations, and dyskinesias are listed as side effects of pramipexole and other dopamine agonists.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Postural hypotension is common early in treatment and can be reduced by increasing the intake of salt and water. An alpha-adrenergic agonist, not an antagonist, can help. Amantadine is used to treat levodopa-induced dyskinesias. Drug holidays are used when adverse effects increase with long-term use of levodopa; the drug holiday allows beneficial effects to be achieved with lower doses, which reduces the incidence of side effects.