Week 9 Discussion 1: Harold or Greg ADHD Case Study

Post#2 Discussion 1 Harold or Greg Case Study by Relindis

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

What Symptoms of ADHD does Your Patient Present with?

Harold has ADHD is a medical condition where one has differences in brain development and brain activity which affects their attention and ability to exercise self-control. The symptoms of ADHD that Harold displays is a lack of attentiveness since he finds it difficult to concentrate (Collins, 2014). For example, he makes wrong designs due to the pressure from the short deadlines. In addition, he is easily distracted, for instead of reading in the library, he is distracted by the snow. Harold also finds it difficult to sit still and listen since his mind is always distracted (Stahl, 2013). He also has poor organization skills since he seems to forget everything, such as paying bills.

What Are Other Possible Causes of His Symptoms?

Harold experiences the symptoms of ADHD when he is under stress. This is triggered by work pressure due to short deadlines for the tasks he has to deliver. Working under this immense pressure makes it difficult for Harold to concentrate or focus on the task at hand (Stahl, 2013). The excess stimuli increase his stress level and anxiety; thus, loss of concentration leads to him making wrong designs for the windows. Besides, Foods that have a high concentration of sugar triggers ADHD symptoms. For example, Harold drinks soda with a high concentration of sugar that can cause blood sugar imbalance, thus triggering inattention behavior (Stahl, 2013). Additionally, sitting in the work meeting, such as department meetings, triggers Harold's ADHD symptoms. This is because sitting in crowded areas causes overstimulation, thus making it difficult for him to concentrate.

What Further Information, if Any, Would You Like about This Case?

Further information I may need to know about Harold's age, weight, and family history. This is essential for I will be able to determine whether ADHD runs in the family since this disorder is sometimes hereditary (Collins, 2014). Also, I may be concerned about his medical history to determine if he has other medical problems such as sleep apnea, thyroid problem, or drugs and substance abuse that can be presenting ADHD symptoms.

With the Assumption that the Patient Does Have ADHD, What Medication Would You Prescribe (List Name and Dose)? Why?

Ritalin drugs can be administered and taken orally with an average dosage of 5mg to 10 mg BID, preferably half an hour before meals. Ritalin is a stimulant drug that helps increase dopamine levels in the brain, thus assisting the brain to calm down (Stahl, 2013).

Wellbutrin is essential and should be taken at a maximum of three times a day in a 75mg dosage each time. Wellbutrin is an antidepressant drug that reduces the severity of symptoms related to ADHD (Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2020).

List Any Relevant Safety Information and Screening (labs, etc.) Related to Your Medication Choice

Before administering Ritalin, a central nervous system stimulant, it is essential to assess the presence of cardiac disease in the patients. This entails conducting a careful family history assessment of cases of sudden deaths and physical examination of the patient (CDC, 2020). This is essential since Ritalin is a stimulant that can trigger stroke, heart attack, and sudden deaths, especially in individuals suffering from heart diseases and high blood pressure. Besides, there is a need to assess the patients' risk of drug abuse before prescription and monitor for signs of abuse while on medication. This is because Ritalin can trigger addiction where patients may begin to abuse the medication leading to an overdose; thus, it is essential to educate patients about drug abuse.

Moreover, Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that enhances the risk of suicidal behaviors and thoughts in patients. Therefore, doctors need to monitor their patients taking the drug for suicidal thoughts, especially when they increase the dosage (Stahl, 2013). Also, the drug can trigger seizures in patients, especially when they consume in higher doses. Therefore, Nurse Practitioners need to change medication if patients experience seizures.

References

Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020, September 3). ADHD treatment recommendations. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/guidelines.html

Collins, A. M. (2014). Childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and bipolar mania: Neurobiology of symptoms and treatments. The Journal for Nurse Practitioners, 10(1), 16-21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nurpra.2013.10.008

Stahl, S. M. (2013). Stahl's essential psychopharmacology: Neuroscientific basis and practical applications. Cambridge University Press.

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