Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Sleep and Sleep Disorders Related

Review Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Sleep and Sleep Disorders related questions and content

Which information will the nurse plan to include when teaching a patient with narcolepsy about management of the disorder?

  • A. Stimulant drugs should be used for only a short time because of the risk for abuse.
  • B. Driving an automobile may be possible with appropriate treatment of narcolepsy.
  • C. Changes in sleep hygiene are ineffective in improving sleep quality in narcolepsy.
  • D. Antidepressant drugs are prescribed to treat the depression caused by the disorder.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The accident rate for patients with narcolepsy who are receiving appropriate treatment is similar to the general population. Stimulant medications are used on an ongoing basis for patients with narcolepsy. The purpose of antidepressant drugs in the treatment of narcolepsy is the management of cataplexy, not to treat depression. Changes in sleep hygiene are recommended for patients with narcolepsy to improve sleep quality.