The nurse is teaching a client who is starting gabapentin for neuropathic pain. Which statement shows correct understanding?
1I will double the next dose if pain is not relieved after the first scheduled dose.
2I will take it as scheduled, avoid abrupt withdrawal, and report new mood or suicidal changes.✓ Correct answer
3I will use it only for sudden severe pain and skip doses whenever the pain is mild.
4I will drive as usual after the first dose because this medicine does not cause drowsiness.
Explanation
Gabapentin is taken on schedule and may require gradual titration for benefit. Abrupt discontinuation can cause serious problems, and new mood changes or suicidal thoughts require prompt reporting. Dizziness and somnolence can impair driving, and the client should not double doses or use the drug only as needed unless specifically prescribed that way.
Clinical reasoning Gabapentin can cause dizziness and somnolence, especially during initiation and dose changes. Like other antiepileptic drugs, it carries a warning for suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Decision rule Take it on schedule, use fall and driving precautions until effects are known, report concerning mood changes, and taper only under prescriber direction rather than stopping abruptly.