CARN Nursing Interventions and Treatment 3

Question 1

A patient with alcohol use disorder is prescribed acamprosate. What is the primary mechanism of this medication?

Accepted Answer

Modulates glutamate and GABA to reduce post-acute withdrawal craving

Answer

Acamprosate modulates glutamate (NMDA) and GABA systems to reduce the neurochemical imbalance that drives craving during early abstinence.

Question 2

A nurse is caring for a neonate born to a mother who used opioids during pregnancy. The infant has a Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring score of 9. What is the appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Begin pharmacological treatment with morphine or methadone

Answer

A Finnegan score of 8 or higher on two consecutive assessments (or ≥ 12 on a single assessment) generally triggers pharmacological treatment.

Question 3

Which harm reduction intervention has the strongest evidence for reducing HIV transmission among people who inject drugs (PWID)?

Accepted Answer

Syringe services programs (SSPs)

Answer

Syringe services programs reduce needle sharing and have substantial evidence for decreasing HIV and hepatitis C transmission among PWID.

Question 4

A patient with stimulant use disorder asks about medications approved by the FDA to treat cocaine dependence. What is the most accurate nursing response?

Accepted Answer

No FDA-approved pharmacotherapy currently exists for cocaine use disorder

Answer

As of current guidelines, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine or stimulant use disorder; treatment relies on behavioral interventions.

Question 5

When using the transtheoretical model (stages of change), a patient says, 'I know my drinking is a problem and I'm thinking about quitting—maybe in the next few months.' In which stage is this patient?

Accepted Answer

Contemplation

Answer

Contemplation is characterized by awareness of the problem and consideration of change within the next 6 months, but without a firm commitment or plan.

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

CARN Nursing Interventions and Treatment 3