Author Question: A client recovering from surgery is prescribed zolpidem (Ambien) for sleep. The client is scheduled ... (Read 56 times)

big1devin · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A client recovering from surgery is prescribed zolpidem (Ambien) for sleep. The client is scheduled for physical therapy at 8 p.m. What should the nurse do when providing the client with this medication?

1. Crush the medication in a small amount of food.
2. Provide the medication with food.
3. Administer the medication prior to attending physical therapy because it takes 3060 minutes to produce effects.
4. Administer the medication immediately prior to expected sleep.

Question 2

The nurse is preparing to administer intravenous lorazepam (Ativan) to a client. Which nursing intervention is a priority following the parenteral administration of this medication?

1. Assess for drug interactions with other medications.
2. Instruct client to change positions slowly, especially from lying to standing.
3. Monitor for changes in respirations.
4. Assess for seizure activity.

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

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Ambien should be swallowed whole with plenty of water.
Rationale 2: The presence of food will reduce absorption of the drug, so it should be taken on an empty stomach.
Rationale 3: Ambien has a very rapid onset and should be taken immediately before bedtime.
Rationale 4: Ambien has a very rapid onset and should be taken immediately before bedtime.
Global Rationale: Ambien has a very rapid onset and should be taken immediately before bedtime. Ambien should be swallowed whole with plenty of water. The presence of food will reduce absorption of the drug, so it should be taken on an empty stomach.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Assessing for drug interactions with other medications should be completed prior to administering the medication.
Rationale 2: Changing position slowly, especially from lying down to standing, helps to prevent dizziness and possible falls, especially in the older adult. However, this is not the priority intervention when administering the medication.
Rationale 3: When providing this medication through the parenteral route, the client should be monitored for respiratory depression.
Rationale 4: Ativan is used for several off-label indications, including seizures. However, this is not the priority intervention when administering the medication.
Global Rationale: When providing this medication through the parenteral route, the client should be monitored for respiratory depression. Assessing for drug interactions with other medications should be completed prior to administering the medication. Changing position slowly, especially from lying down to standing, helps to prevent dizziness and possible falls, especially in the older adult. However, this is not the priority intervention when administering the medication. Ativan is used for several off-label indications, including seizures. However, this is not the priority intervention when administering the medication.