Psychiatric Drugs and Medications Q 13

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A nurse is giving discharge instructions to a client who will be taking phenobarbital (Luminal). The nurse would educate the client in which of the following directly correlates with the safety of the client?

  

     A. Take the medication at the same time each day.

     B. Take the medication with meals only.

     C. Avoid using sleep aids while taking the medication.

     D. Decrease the dosage once with symptoms of dizziness and lightheadedness.

    

    

Correct Answer: C. Avoid using sleep aids while taking the medication.

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Phenobarbital (Luminal) is an anticonvulsant and hypnotic drug. The client should avoid drinking alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers).

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Option A: Taking the medication at the same time daily improves compliance and maintains more stable blood levels of the medication.

Option B: The medication is taken without regard to meals.

Option D: Decreasing the dosage is not done without the approval of the physician.

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