Question

The nurse has given discharge instructions to a client who suffers from sensory neuropathy due to diabetes. The client was prescribed gabapentin. Which of the following statements indicates that the client understands the nurse's instructions regarding the medication?

A
"It is safe to take extra doses if my pain becomes worse."
B
"I can stop taking the medication at any time."
C
"My doctor prescribed it for the pain in my legs." Correct Answer (Blank)
D
"The medication might cause me to have insomnia."

Answer 1

The client demonstrates understanding of the nurse's instructions when saying, "My doctor prescribed it for the pain in my legs," indicating the correct use of gabapentin for neuropathic pain due to diabetic neuropathy. Dosage must be adhered to and stopped only under medical supervision.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct response that indicates the client understands the nurse's instructions regarding the medication gabapentin would be, "CMy doctor prescribed it for the pain in my legs." Gabapentin is often prescribed to manage neuropathic pain associated with diabetic neuropathy. The medication works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain and influencing the activity of neurotransmitters, which can help relieve pain.

It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not to take extra doses of gabapentin without consulting a doctor, as this could lead to potential side effects or overdosage. Moreover, gabapentin should not be stopped abruptly but rather tapered down as per medical advice to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Gabapentin does not commonly cause insomnia; instead, it has sedative effects that can lead to drowsiness or dizziness, which is why it's important to be cautious when operating machinery or performing activities that require alertness.