Page 2307 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

generated withdrawal discomfort.
8. Specific measures for symptom management may also
be used, such as antidiarrheal agents and
acetaminophen for muscle aches.
D. Hallucinogens
1. Hallucinogens include substances such as lysergic acid
diethylamide (LSD), mescaline (peyote), psilocybin
(mushrooms), and phencyclidine (PCP).
2. Intoxication (Box 66-9)
3. Overdose effects of LSD, peyote, and psilocybin
include psychosis, brain damage, and death; effects of
PCP include psychosis, hypertensive crisis,
hyperthermia, seizures, and respiratory arrest.
4. Treatment (LSD, peyote, psilocybin) involves low
environmental stimuli (speak slowly, clearly, and in a
low voice) and medications to treat anxiety.

5. Treatment (PCP) involves possible gastric

lavage (if alert); treatment to acidify the urine to assist
in excreting the drug; and interventions to treat
behavioral disturbances, hyperthermia, hypertension,
and respiratory distress.
6. Management of withdrawal is primarily supportive
and may include medications to target particular
problem behaviors, such as agitation.

Flashbacks, which are unexpected reexperiences of the effects

of taking a hallucinogenic drug, can occur for extended periods of time
after its original use. Safety during flashbacks is a priority.
E. Inhalants
1. Inhalants include gases or liquids such as butane,
paint thinner, paint and wax removers, airplane glue,
nail polish remover, and nitrous oxide.
2. Intoxication (Box 66-10)

3. Overdose can cause damage to the nervous

system and death.
4. Management of withdrawal is mainly supportive,
including the treatment of affected body systems.
F. Marijuana (Cannabis sativa)
1. Generally is smoked, but can be ingested; may be
legally prescribed in certain states and in some states
and provinces is legal without a prescription.
2. Causes euphoria, detachment, relaxation,
talkativeness, slowed perception of time, anxiety, and
paranoia.

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