Kaplan NCLEX Question of The Day Related

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Which symptoms is the client who overdosed on barbiturates most likely to exhibit?

  • A. Bradypnea and bradycardia
  • B. Hyperthermia and drowsiness
  • C. Hyperreflexia and slurred speech
  • D. Tachycardia and psychosis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is bradypnea and bradycardia. Barbiturates are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which will slow down the respiratory rate (bradypnea) and heart rate (bradycardia). Choice B, hyperthermia and drowsiness, is incorrect as barbiturate overdose typically does not cause hyperthermia but rather hypothermia. Hyperreflexia and slurred speech (Choice C) are more indicative of stimulant overdoses rather than CNS depressants like barbiturates. Tachycardia and psychosis (Choice D) are also not typically seen in barbiturate overdose, as these drugs tend to depress the CNS rather than cause symptoms of increased heart rate or psychosis.