Question

The nurse is providing medication education to an adult client who has recently been prescribed methylphenidate. Which statement(s) made by the client suggests that the education has been effective? (Select all that apply.)

A. “I will be asked periodically to stop taking the medication for short periods?”

B. “This medication is not safe for me to take if I start feeling really anxious again.”

C. “My primary health care provider needs to know if my appetite starts to decrease.”

D. “It is important that my blood pressure be monitored closely while taking this medication.”

E. “I need to stop smoking because nicotine decreases the therapeutic effect of this medication.”

Answer 1

B. “This medication is not safe for me to take if I start feeling really anxious again.”

C. “My primary health care provider needs to know if my appetite starts to decrease.”

D. “It is important that my blood pressure be monitored closely while taking this medication.”

Methylphenidate is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant and comes under the brand name Ritalin. Generally, it is used for treating Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Methylphenidate comes with the risk of slowly increasing the heart rate and BP and thereby it becomes important to monitor blood pressure while taking this medicine. Feelings of anxiety and agitation while taking these medications could possibly indicate an overdose which is not considered safe for the patient. There remain adequate chances of loss of appetite and weight loss while taking this medication which can create further complications if not intervened. Hence it's better to consult a doctor if any such thing happens.

These medications should not be stopped instantly as they can cause withdrawal symptoms and should be gradually decreased under the guidance of the doctors. There is no evidence that smoking decreases it therapeutic effect.