Final answer:
The nurse should instruct the parent to watch for decreased appetite as a side effect when administering dextroamphetamine to a child with ADHD. Stimulants often increase heart rate and should not be given just before bedtime due to possible interference with sleep.
Step-by-step explanation:
When educating a parent of a 10-year-old child who has ADHD and a new prescription for dextroamphetamine, a nurse should include several important instructions due to the effects of this stimulant medication. One key instruction to include is to watch for decreased appetite as a side effect. This is because stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine, commonly used in the treatment of ADHD, often lead to decreased appetite in patients. As these medications increase neurotransmitter activity in areas of the brain associated with impulse control, they can paradoxically have a calming effect and decrease hyperactivity.
The medication should not be given just before bedtime, as it can interfere with sleep due to its stimulant properties. Administering the medication with calcium-rich foods is not specifically recommended for this medication, and monitoring the child for a decreased heart rate isn't typical as stimulant medications often increase heart rate. Proper adherence to the medication schedule and close monitoring of the child's response to the medication is crucial for managing ADHD symptoms.