Drug Classifications and Clinical Uses
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Questions and Answers

Match the drug with its appropriate classification.

Diazepam = Benzodiazepine Zolpidem = Benzodiazepine-like Secobarbital = Barbiturate Ramelteon = Melatonin receptor agonist

Benzodiazepine-like drugs are used primarily for the treatment of which condition?

Insomnia

Which statements are accurate regarding benzodiazepines? (Select all that apply)

  • Benzodiazepines suppress neuronal function only in specific sites.
  • The effect of benzodiazepines can be sedating, hypnotic, or stupor-inducing. (correct)
  • Benzodiazepines have no effect on the central nervous system.
  • Benzodiazepines are highly addictive. (correct)
  • Which medication would the nurse anticipate will be prescribed for long-term use for sleep?

    <p>Zolpidem</p> Signup and view all the answers

    For which concerning symptom does the nurse closely monitor in a patient taking a benzodiazepine?

    <p>Respiratory depression</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What nursing actions are appropriate for an older adult patient prescribed a sedative-hypnotic for insomnia?

    <p>Use bed alarms, provide call light, keep side rails elevated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the nurse say to a patient who takes diazepam with grapefruit juice every morning?

    <p>Grapefruit products may increase the drug's concentration and effects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which phrase describes the mechanism of action of benzodiazepines?

    <p>Depresses all levels of the central nervous system (CNS) by enhancing action of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which patient statement about the pharmacodynamics of zolpidem requires further teaching by the nurse?

    <p>I am worried that this drug will stay in my system for a long time.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which patient statement about the pharmacodynamics of diazepam indicates effective medication teaching?

    <p>This medication can be sedating so I will not plan to drive until I know how it affects me.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which assessment data would the nurse obtain before the administration of diazepam?

    <p>Mental status</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which assessment finding would cause the nurse to hold the dose of zolpidem and notify the health care provider?

    <p>Reports a history of sleep apnea</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which instructions would the nurse provide to a patient who has been prescribed diazepam? (Select all that apply)

    <p>The oral concentrate form of diazepam can be diluted with water.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect should a patient who has been taking zolpidem for more than a year be educated to avoid sudden discontinuation of the drug?

    <p>Vomiting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What drug interaction should a nurse discuss with a patient using St. John's wort and prescribed a benzodiazepine?

    <p>Lack of reduction in anxiety symptoms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which patient, if prescribed a benzodiazepine, would the nurse contact the provider about?

    <p>A postpartum patient who is breastfeeding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Drug Classifications

    • Benzodiazepines: Include diazepam, known for their sedative-hypnotic properties.
    • Benzodiazepine-like drugs: Primarily used to treat insomnia; an example is zolpidem.
    • Barbiturates: Secobarbital falls under this category, used in an older context for sedation.
    • Melatonin receptor agonists: Ramelteon is an example that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles.

    Clinical Uses of Drugs

    • Benzodiazepine-like drugs are primarily utilized in managing insomnia, providing a safer option for sleeplessness.
    • Zolpidem is favored for long-term use in sleep disorders due to its efficacy and safety profile.

    Characteristics of Benzodiazepines

    • Highly addictive with potential to induce tolerance and dependence.
    • They depress neuronal function across multiple central nervous system sites, leading to sedative, hypnotic, or stupor-inducing effects.

    Nursing Considerations

    • Monitor for respiratory depression in patients taking benzodiazepines.
    • For older adults prescribed sedative-hypnotics, implementing safety measures like bed alarms and maintaining call lights and elevated side rails is crucial.
    • Take caution with diazepam when combined with grapefruit juice, as it can enhance drug concentration and effects.

    Pharmacodynamics Insights

    • Benzodiazepines enhance GABA action, leading to depression across all CNS levels.
    • Patients are educated on the transient nature of zolpidem in the system to alleviate concerns about prolonged effects.
    • Effective medication teaching for diazepam involves understanding its sedative properties, advising against driving until patients are aware of their reactions.

    Pre-Administration Assessment

    • Evaluate blood pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, mental status, and oxygen saturation before administering diazepam for a comprehensive safety check.
    • A history of sleep apnea can warrant the withholding of zolpidem and the notification of the healthcare provider.

    Patient Education

    • Patients taking diazepam can crush tablets and mix with applesauce; it can be taken with or without food, and the concentrate should be diluted with water.
    • Long-term zolpidem users should be counseled against sudden discontinuation to prevent withdrawal symptoms like vomiting.
    • Patients on St. John's wort may experience reduced effectiveness of benzodiazepines, necessitating further discussion.

    Special Considerations

    • Contact the provider if a breastfeeding postpartum patient is prescribed a benzodiazepine, as safety for the infant requires careful consideration.

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    Description

    This quiz explores various drug classifications, including benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and melatonin receptor agonists. It also discusses their clinical uses, effects, and nursing considerations. Test your knowledge on the characteristics and implications of these medications.

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