A client asks the nurse about using valerian to help him sleep. ...

[TVarnum]

A client asks the nurse about using valerian to help him sleep. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate? Select all that apply.
 
  A) The herb is generally considered safe.
  B) You need to take it about 4 hours before bedtime.
  C) It might take 2 to 4 weeks before you notice the full benefit.
  D) You can combine it with other calming herbs.
  E) If you stop using it, you won't have any withdrawal symptoms.

Question 2

A nurse caring for a client taking amitriptyline for depression should monitor the client for which of the following adverse events? Select all that apply.
 
  A) Sedation
  B) Diarrhea
  C) Incontinence
  D) Dry mouth
  E) Photosensitivity

[Dunkey]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: A, C, D
Feedback:
Valerian is classified as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in the United States. When used as an aid to sleep, valerian is taken approximately 1 hour before bedtime. It can be used in combination with other calming herbs, such as lemon balm or chamomile. It may take 2 to 4 weeks before the full therapeutic effect (i.e., improvement of mood and sleep patterns) occurs. Individuals have been known to experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking valerian abruptly.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: A, D, E
Feedback:
The use of tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline can cause the following side effects: sedation, dry mouth, visual disturbances, urinary retention, constipation, and photosensitivity.

[TVarnum]

Thank you!

[Dunkey]

Always glad to help...