Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Substance Use Disorders Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Substance Use Disorders related questions and content

Which of the following instructions should a nurse give to clients with opiate dependency who take methadone?

  • A. Avoid driving for 3 hours after medication.
  • B. Take vitamin substitutes.
  • C. Maintain bed rest for 1 hour after medication.
  • D. Wear a MedicAlert tag.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should instruct the client who takes methadone to tell healthcare providers or wear a MedicAlert tag in case the client needs a narcotic, tranquilizer, or barbiturate. Because methadone is a narcotic, lower dosages of other sedative drugs are necessary because the combination may potentiate their depressant action. It is not essential for client to avoid driving or to maintain bed rest after medication. Vitamin substitutes may not be required.