Author Question: The patient is receiving zolpidem (Ambien) for treatment of short-term insomnia. What is the primary ... (Read 34 times)

nramada · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

The patient is receiving zolpidem (Ambien) for treatment of short-term insomnia. What is the primary safety concern of the nurse when the patient takes this medication?

1. Dizziness and daytime sedation
2. Nausea and diarrhea
3. Nausea and gastrointestinal (GI) distress
4. Sleepwalking

Question 2

The nurse works with a physician who frequently prescribes benzodiazepines. The use of benzodiazepines in which patient would cause the nurse the most concern?

1. An 87-year-old patient who uses a cane for ambulation
2. A 9-year-old child with panic attacks
3. A 42-year-old businessman who travels internationally
4. A 32-year-old mother of two preschool children

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

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale: During sleepwalking, a patient may leave the home and cause injury to self. Nausea and gastrointestinal (GI) distress are common side effects of zolpidem (Ambien), and usually subside after a few days on the medication. Dizziness and daytime sedation are common side effects of zolpidem (Ambien), and usually subside after a few days on the medication. Nausea and diarrhea are common side effects of zolpidem (Ambien), and usually subside after a few days on the medication.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale: Benzodiazepines should be used with caution in elderly patients. Elderly patients are at highest risk because their metabolism and excretion is slowed; and there is a higher potential for overdose and sedation. There have been few studies of benzodiazepine use in the pediatric population; benzodiazepines must be used with caution, but these patients are not at as high risk as the elderly population. There is minimal concern with benzodiazepine use in a 32-year-old patient. There is minimal concern with benzodiazepine use in a 42-year-old patient.