The nurse is caring for a young adult patient who is receiving a first dose of flurazepam (Dalmane) as a sedative-hypnotic medication. What intervention will be included in the nurse's plan of care for this patient?
a. Instituting a bed alarm system to prevent falls
b. Reassuring the patient that nightmares are not a usual effect
c. Reporting a urine output greater than 1500 mL/day
d. Teaching the patient that this drug may be used for 6 to 8 weeks
ANS: A
The nurse should use a bed alarm for older patients and younger patients receiving a hypnotic for the first time. Patients may experience vivid dreams and nightmares. Urine output should be greater than 1500 mL/day, so this does not warrant reporting. This drug should be used short-term.
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