Question

Multiple-choice question: Which statement if made by Robert indicates the need for further teaching about cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)? A. “I should chew gum if I develop dry mouth.” B. “I will return to the ED if I cannot urinate.” C. “I should not take this medication before going to sleep.” D. “Th is medication relaxes the muscle spasm.

Short answer

The answer is C. 'I should not take this medication before going to sleep.' indicates the need for further teaching about cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril).

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Medication

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) is a muscle relaxant. It is typically used to relieve skeletal muscle spasms and associated pain in acute musculoskeletal conditions. It's crucial to understand that it can cause drowsiness and dry mouth as side effects. It may also cause urinary retention, but this is less common.

Analyze Statements

Each of the statements made by Robert has to be examined individually to evaluate if it corresponds to the correct usage and knowledge of side effects of cyclobenzaprine. Statement A shows understanding of the possible side effect of dry mouth and a correct response to it. Statement B indicates understanding that urinary retention, although rare, is a serious side effect requiring immediate attention. Statement D shows correct understanding of the drug's action. Statement C, however, is incorrect– this medication can indeed cause drowsiness and therefore should be taken before sleep unless specifically instructed otherwise by a healthcare provider.

Make a Conclusion

Based on the analysis above, it can be concluded that Statement C – 'I should not take this medication before going to sleep.' – indicates the need for further teaching about cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), since it represents a misunderstanding of the medication's side effect and usage guidelines. Therefore, the answer is C

Key concepts

Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) Usage

Cyclobenzaprine, commonly known as Flexeril, plays an important role in managing muscle spasms that might be associated with acute painful musculoskeletal conditions. As a centrally acting muscle relaxant, it works by blocking nerve impulses (or pain sensations) that are sent to your brain.

Guidelines for the usage of cyclobenzaprine are straightforward. It is usually prescribed for short-term relief, not typically exceeding two to three weeks, and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including physical therapy and rest. The standard dosing may start from 5 mg to 10 mg, taken three times a day, and it should be taken exactly as directed by the healthcare provider.

An essential point to remember is that Flexeril may cause drowsiness; hence, it is generally advised to take it before bedtime unless contraindicated. This helps to minimize the impact of its sedative effect during the waking hours and utilize its muscle-relaxing properties for better sleep. However, patients should not operate heavy machinery or drive after taking cyclobenzaprine until they know how it affects them.

Muscle Relaxant Side Effects

While muscle relaxants like cyclobenzaprine are effective for managing muscle spasms, they come with a series of potential side effects that patients should be aware of.

• Drowsiness: As mentioned earlier, cyclobenzaprine can lead to significant drowsiness, which can interfere with daily activities.
• Dry Mouth: Many patients may experience dry mouth, and as Step 1 of the solution suggested, chewing gum or sipping water may help alleviate this discomfort.
• Urinary Retention: Difficulty in urination can occur, though it's less common. This condition can be serious, and healthcare professionals should be consulted if it happens.
• Other Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, and nausea are also possible and should be reported to a healthcare provider if they persist or become bothersome.

In educating patients about these side effects, it's important for them to understand that they should contact their healthcare provider if they experience side effects that are severe or impacting their ability to function daily.

Nursing Patient Education

Effective patient education by nurses is essential in ensuring the safe and appropriate use of medications like cyclobenzaprine. Nurses play a crucial role in reinforcing the correct usage, potential side effects, and any necessary actions patients should take in response to those side effects.

Key Points for Patient Education

• Explain clearly how and when to take the medication, emphasizing the importance of following the prescription schedule.
• Warn patients about the potential for drowsiness and advise them on appropriate precautions, such as avoiding driving.
• Discuss common side effects like dry mouth and suggest practical remedies such as chewing gum or staying hydrated.
• Inform patients about serious side effects such as difficulty urinating and instruct them to seek medical attention if they occur.
• Stress the importance of notifying a healthcare provider if new symptoms or unmanageable side effects develop.

Nurses should also assess a patient's understanding by asking them to repeat instructions and clarify any misconceptions, as seen in Step 3 of the solution with Robert's statements. This approach improves medication adherence and patient outcomes.