The adolescent Hispanic male has been diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and is taking methylphenidate (Ritalin)

Question

Even though the drug helps with focus and grades, the adolescent will not go to the school office at noon for his medication. Which statement best describes the result of the nurse's evaluation?
1. The adolescent has developed alternative coping mechanisms to increase his focus during classes.
2. The adolescent is fearful that this drug may be a "gateway drug" and he will abuse other substances.
3. The adolescent really does not need an additional dose of methylphenidate (Ritalin) at school.
4. The adolescent is embarrassed about having to take medicine at school; it is a social stigma.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale: Some patients believe that having to take drugs in school will cause them to be viewed as weak, unhealthy, or dependent. Patients can also perceive this as a social stigma. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is a short-acting drug and doses must be administered about 4 hours apart, so the patient must receive a dose during school hours. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a brain-based disorder, and the primary treatment is medication; alternative coping mechanisms will not usually help to increase focus during classes. Appropriate treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder will result in less addiction to mood-altering substances, not more addiction.