A client is experiencing severe agitation and tremors due to withdrawal from the benzodiazepine alprazolam. What is the best initial nursing action?

Step 1: Convert the client’s weight from lbs to kg. 1 kg is approximately 2.2 lbs. So, 198 lbs ÷

2.2 = 90 kg (rounded to the nearest whole number).

Step 2: Calculate the total mcg of Dopamine needed per minute. The prescription is for 2 mcg/kg/minute. So, 90 kg × 2 mcg/kg/minute = 180 mcg/minute.

Step 3: Convert the total mcg of Dopamine in the bag to mcg/mL. The bag contains 400 mg of Dopamine in 250 mL. 1 mg is equal to 1000 mcg. So, 400 mg × 1000 = 400,000 mcg. Therefore, the concentration is 400,000 mcg ÷ 250 mL = 1600 mcg/mL.

Step 4: Calculate the mL of Dopamine needed per minute. So, 180 mcg/minute ÷ 1600 mcg/mL

= 0.1125 mL/minute.

Step 5: Convert mL/minute to mL/hour. There are 60 minutes in an hour. So, 0.1125 mL/minute × 60 = 6.75 mL/hour. The IV pump should be set to deliver 6.8 mL/hour (rounded to the nearest tenth).

Choice A rationale

While constipation due to immobility can be a concern for a client diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it is not the highest priority. The nurse should ensure that the client has a diet high in fiber and drinks plenty of fluids to prevent constipation. Regular physical activity can also help to stimulate bowel movements. However, this is not the most critical issue that needs to be addressed.

Choice B rationale

The risk for aspiration due to muscle weakness is the highest priority for a client diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. This is because Parkinson’s disease can cause difficulties with swallowing, which can lead to aspiration. Aspiration can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of difficulty swallowing and aspiration. The client may need to be referred to a speech therapist for a swallowing evaluation and may need modifications to their diet to make swallowing easier.

Choice C rationale

While impaired physical mobility due to muscle rigidity can be a concern for a client diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it is not the highest priority. The nurse should encourage the client to engage in regular physical activity to help manage muscle rigidity. Physical therapy may also be beneficial. However, this is not the most critical issue that needs to be addressed.

Choice D rationale

While a self-care deficit due to motor disturbance can be a concern for a client diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it is not the highest priority. The nurse should assess the client’s ability to perform activities of daily living and provide assistance as needed. Occupational therapy may also be beneficial. However, this is not the most critical issue that needs to be addressed.