Chapter 31. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
1. The nurse is caring for a 7-year-old child who has difficulty concentrating and completing tasks and who
cannot seem to sit still. Which diagnostic test may be ordered to assist with a diagnosis of attention
deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in this child?
a. Computerized tomography (CT) of the head
b. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
c. Electroencephalogram (EEG)
d. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain
ANS: C
A child with ADHD may have abnormal EEG findings. CT, MRI, and ECG tests are not diagnostic for ADHD.
2. The nurse is teaching a child and a parent about taking methylphenidate (Ritalin) to treat attention
deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Which statement by the parent indicates understanding of the teaching?
a. I should give this drug to my child at bedtime.
b. My child should avoid products containing caffeine.
c. The drug should be stopped immediately if my child develops aggression.
d. We should monitor my childs weight since weight gain is common.
ANS: B
Methylphenidate is a stimulant, so other stimulants such as caffeine should be avoided because a high plasma
caffeine level can be fatal. The medication should be taken in the morning. Patients should be taught not to stop
the drug abruptly to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Weight loss is common.
3. The parent of a child who is taking amphetamine (Adderall) to treat attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD) asks the provider to recommend an over-the-counter medication to treat a cold. What will the nurse tell
the parent?
1. The nurse is caring for a 7-year-old child who has difficulty concentrating and completing tasks and who
cannot seem to sit still. Which diagnostic test may be ordered to assist with a diagnosis of attention
deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in this child?
a. Computerized tomography (CT) of the head
b. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
c. Electroencephalogram (EEG)
d. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain
ANS: C
A child with ADHD may have abnormal EEG findings. CT, MRI, and ECG tests are not diagnostic for ADHD.
2. The nurse is teaching a child and a parent about taking methylphenidate (Ritalin) to treat attention
deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Which statement by the parent indicates understanding of the teaching?
a. I should give this drug to my child at bedtime.
b. My child should avoid products containing caffeine.
c. The drug should be stopped immediately if my child develops aggression.
d. We should monitor my childs weight since weight gain is common.
ANS: B
Methylphenidate is a stimulant, so other stimulants such as caffeine should be avoided because a high plasma
caffeine level can be fatal. The medication should be taken in the morning. Patients should be taught not to stop
the drug abruptly to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Weight loss is common.
3. The parent of a child who is taking amphetamine (Adderall) to treat attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD) asks the provider to recommend an over-the-counter medication to treat a cold. What will the nurse tell
the parent?
