2)¨******APA norms, please use headers All paragraphs must be and cited in the text- each paragraphs responses are not accepted Dont copy and pase the questions. Answer the question objectively, do not make introductions to your answers, answer it when you start the paragraph 4) Minimum 6 references not older than 5 years Minimum 3 references per part 5) Identify your answer with the numbers, according to the question. Example: Q 1. Nursing is XXXXX Q 2. Health is XXXX You must answer the part 1 questions posted, 2 times. You must submit 2 documents (each one 2 pages: Copy and paste will not be admitted. S.H., age 47, reports difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. These problems have been ongoing for many years, but she has never mentioned them to her health care provider. She has generally “lived with it” and selftreated the problem with OTC Tylenol PM. Currently, she is also experiencing perimenopausal symptoms of night sweats and mood swings. Current medical problems include hypertension controlled with medications. Past medical history includes childhood illnesses of measles, chickenpox, and mumps. Family history is positive for diabetes on the maternal side and hypertension on the paternal side. Her only medication is an angiotensinconverting enzyme inhibitor and diuretic combination for hypertension control. She generally does not like taking medication and does not take any other OTC products. 1. List specific goals of therapy for S.H. 2. What drug therapy would you prescribe? Why? 3. What are the parameters for monitoring the success of the therapy? 4. Discuss specific patient education based on the prescribed therapy 5. List one or two adverse reactions for the selected agent that would cause you to change therapy. 6. What would be the choice for second-line therapy? 7. What OTC and/or alternative medicines might be appropriate for this patient? 8. What dietary and lifestyle changes might you recommend? 9. Describe one or two drug–drug or drug–food interactions for the selected agent.

1. The specific goals of therapy for S.H. would be to effectively treat her difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep, as well as address her perimenopausal symptoms of night sweats and mood swings. Additionally, it is important to control her hypertension and monitor its success.

2. In this case, considering S.H.’s difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep, a drug therapy that could be prescribed is a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic such as zolpidem (Ambien). Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic medication that acts on the benzodiazepine receptor subtype that is involved in sleep regulation. It has been shown to effectively reduce sleep onset latency and increase total sleep time. It is also generally well-tolerated and has a lower risk of dependence compared to benzodiazepines.

As for S.H.’s perimenopausal symptoms, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered. This therapy can help alleviate symptoms such as night sweats and mood swings by replenishing the declining levels of estrogen and progesterone during menopause. However, the decision to prescribe HRT should involve a thorough evaluation of the risks and benefits, taking into account S.H.’s medical history and personal preferences.

3. The parameters for monitoring the success of therapy would involve assessing S.H.’s improvement in sleep quality, reduction in sleep disturbances, and relief from perimenopausal symptoms. This can be done through regular follow-up appointments to evaluate her symptoms and overall well-being. Objective measurements, such as sleep diary records and validated sleep assessment tools, can also be utilized to monitor the effectiveness of the prescribed therapy.

4. Patient education based on the prescribed therapy should include information on the correct administration and dosage of the medications. For zolpidem, S.H. should be educated on taking the medication immediately before going to bed and avoiding activities that require alertness during the night. It is important to emphasize the potential for next-day residual effects, such as drowsiness, and advise against driving or operating machinery if these effects are present. For HRT, S.H. should be informed about the benefits and risks associated with this therapy, including the potential for an increased risk of certain adverse events such as breast cancer and blood clots. It is important to address any concerns or questions S.H. may have and provide her with resources for further information or support.

5. Adverse reactions for zolpidem that would cause a change in therapy may include excessive sedation, confusion, or impaired coordination. These effects may indicate an increased sensitivity to the medication or the need for alternative treatments. For HRT, adverse reactions such as breast pain, vaginal bleeding, or increased blood pressure should be closely monitored. If these adverse reactions occur, a reassessment of the therapy may be necessary.

6. If the initial therapy is ineffective or not well-tolerated, a second-line therapy for S.H.’s difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep could be trazodone. Trazodone is an antidepressant that also has sedating properties, commonly prescribed off-label for the treatment of insomnia. It can help improve sleep quality and reduce awakenings throughout the night. However, it should be noted that trazodone may have a higher risk of adverse effects such as dizziness and daytime sedation compared to zolpidem.

7. In addition to the prescribed medication, S.H. may consider using over-the-counter (OTC) options such as melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles and can be effective in promoting sleep initiation. However, it is important to inform S.H. that OTC options should be used cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as they may interact with prescribed medications or have their own adverse effects.

Alternative medicines such as herbal supplements (e.g., valerian root, chamomile) or relaxation techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga) may also be appropriate for S.H. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any alternative therapies to ensure safety and efficacy.

8. Dietary and lifestyle changes that might be recommended for S.H. include:

– Establishing a regular sleep schedule and maintaining a consistent bedtime routine.
– Avoiding caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep.
– Creating a sleep-friendly environment, such as keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
– Engaging in regular physical exercise during the day but avoiding vigorous activity close to bedtime.
– Practicing stress reduction techniques, such as deep breathing or relaxation exercises, to promote relaxation and better sleep.

9. It is important to consider potential drug interactions when prescribing medications for S.H. Zolpidem, for example, can potentiate the effects of other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, leading to increased sedation and respiratory depression. It is crucial for S.H. to avoid combining zolpidem with these substances. Additionally, zolpidem may have interactions with medications that inhibit or induce cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially altering its pharmacokinetics. A thorough review of S.H.’s medication list is necessary to minimize the risk of drug interactions.