Chapter 12: Muscle Relaxants Quiz

What is the antidote for benzodiazepine overdose?

What potential adverse effect should the nurse monitor for in an older adult patient prescribed benzodiazepines?

What is an appropriate nursing diagnosis for a patient who has just been administered a sedative-hypnotic drug?

What will the nurse anticipate prescribing for a patient who has overdosed on a barbiturate?

How should the difference between sedative and hypnotic drugs be explained?

What condition might a patient experience if administered dantrolene (Dantrium) after surgery?

What is one of the most common adverse effects of midazolam (Versed)?

Benzodiazepine Overdose

Flumazenil (Romazicon) is the antidote for benzodiazepine overdose, unlike naloxone, naltrexone, and nalmefene which are effective against opioids.

Dosing in Special Populations

For children and older adults, benzodiazepine doses should be small with gradual increases to reduce the risk of ataxia (unsteady gait) and excessive sedation.

Nursing Considerations Post-Sedative Administration

Patients administered sedative-hypnotic drugs are at risk for injury and falls due to central nervous system depression.

Barbiturate Overdose Management

There is no specific antidote for barbiturate overdose; activated charcoal can be used to bind the drug in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing further absorption.

Sedative vs. Hypnotic Properties

Many drugs possess both sedative and hypnotic effects; sedative properties are evident at low doses while hypnotic effects occur at higher doses.

Dantrolene and Malignant Hyperthermia

Dantrolene is a direct-acting skeletal muscle relaxant used to treat malignant hyperthermia, a potential complication of anesthesia.

Versed (Midazolam) Effects

Midazolam (Versed) causes amnesia and anxiolysis in addition to sedation, commonly used preoperatively; a notable adverse effect is amnesia, especially after intravenous administration.

Test your knowledge on muscle relaxants and antidotes with this quiz. Focus on benzodiazepine overdose and the appropriate treatments. Ideal for nursing and medical students looking to review essential pharmacology concepts.