Page 2073 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

hypothalamus to suppress appetite (Box 59-9).
5. CNS stimulants are used to treat narcolepsy and
attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders and are used
as adjunctive therapy for exogenous obesity.

B. Side and adverse effects

1. Irritability
2. Restlessness
3. Tremors
4. Insomnia
5. Heart palpitations
6. Tachycardia and dysrhythmias
7. Hypertension
8. Dry mouth
9. Anorexia and weight loss
10. Abdominal cramping
11. Diarrhea or constipation
12. Hepatic failure
13. Psychoses
14. Impotence
15. Dependence and tolerance

C. Interventions

1. Monitor vital signs.
2. Assess mental status.
3. Document the degree of inattention, impulsivity,
hyperactivity, and periods of sleepiness.
4. Assess height, weight, and growth of the child.
5. Monitor complete blood count and white blood cell
and platelet counts before and during therapy.
6. Monitor for side and adverse effects.
7. Monitor sleep patterns.
8. Monitor for withdrawal symptoms such as nausea,
vomiting, weakness, and headache.
9. Instruct the client to take the medication before meals.
10. Instruct the client to avoid foods and beverages
containing caffeine to prevent additional stimulation.
11. Instruct the client not to chew or crush long-acting
forms of the medications.
12. Instruct the client to read labels on over-the-counter
products, because they may contain caffeine.
13. Instruct the client to avoid alcohol.
14. Instruct the client not to discontinue the medication
abruptly (can produce extreme fatigue and
depression).
15. Instruct the client to take the last daily dose of the CNS
stimulant at least 6 hours before bedtime to prevent

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