Question

During patient teaching, the nurse explains the difference between a sedative and hypnotic by stating:

A. Sedatives are much stronger than hypnotic drugs and should only be used for short periods of time.
B. Sedative drugs induce sleep, whereas hypnotic drugs induce a state of hypnosis.
C. Most drugs produce sedation at low doses and sleep (the hypnotic effect) at higher doses
D. There really is no difference; the terms are used interchangeably.

Answer 1

Sedatives produce sedation at low doses and sleep at higher doses, while hypnotic drugs induce sleep.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse explains the difference between a sedative and hypnotic by stating that most drugs produce sedation at low doses and sleep (the hypnotic effect) at higher doses. Sedatives are drugs that induce a state of relaxation and calmness, while hypnotic drugs specifically induce sleep. Sedatives are generally used for anxiety and insomnia, while hypnotic drugs are used primarily for sleep disorders.