A sedative-hypnotic has been prescribed to help a client sleep. What should the nurse teach the client about this medication?
A) It should be taken every night for several months
B) It is useful for sleep but is better taken with alcohol
C) It loses its effectiveness after one or two weeks
D) It should be taken in the morning for long-term effects

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sedative-hypnotics may lose their effectiveness after one or two weeks if taken regularly, therefore it is important to use them only as prescribed and for a limited period of time. Option A is incorrect as it is not safe to take sedative-hypnotics every night for several months. Option B is incorrect because sedative-hypnotics should never be mixed with alcohol as this combination can cause dangerous side effects. Option D is incorrect because sedative-hypnotics are typically taken at night to help with sleep.

A Sedative-Hypnotic Has Been Prescribed to Help a Client Sleep