A 6-year-old client is prescribed methylphenidate (Ritalin) for a ...

[EY67]

A 6-year-old client is prescribed methylphenidate (Ritalin) for a diagnosis of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). When teaching the parents about this medication, which nursing statement explains how Ritalin works?
 
  A. Ritalin's sedation side effect assists children by decreasing their energy level.
  B. How Ritalin works is unknown. Although it is a stimulant, it does combat the symptoms of ADHD.
  C. Ritalin helps the child focus by decreasing the amount of dopamine in the basal ganglia and neuron synapse.
  D. Ritalin decreases hyperactivity by increasing serotonin levels.

Question 2

A nurse has taken report for the evening shift on an adolescent inpatient unit. Which client should the nurse address first?
 
  A. A client diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder being sexually inappropriate with staff
  B. A client diagnosed with conduct disorder who is verbally abusing a peer in the milieu
  C. A client diagnosed with conduct disorder who is demanding special attention from staff
  D. A client diagnosed with attention deficit disorder who has a history of self-mutilation

[Alyson.hiatt@yahoo.com]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
It is unknown how Ritalin works, but even though it is a stimulant, it does decrease hyperactivity in individuals diagnosed with ADHD.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
A client diagnosed with conduct disorder who is verbally abusing a peer in the milieu presents a potential safety concern that would need to be addressed by the nurse immediately.