A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder who is prescribed benzodiazepines. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?
"I should take this medication as needed for panic attacks.".
"I should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.".
"I may experience drowsiness and dizziness as side effects.".
"I can stop taking this medication abruptly if I no longer have panic attacks.".
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Taking benzodiazepines as needed for panic attacks is an incorrect statement. Benzodiazepines are generally not intended for "as-needed" use due to the risk of dependence and withdrawal. They are typically prescribed on a scheduled basis to provide consistent anxiety relief.
Choice B rationale:
Avoiding alcohol while taking benzodiazepines is important due to potential interactions between alcohol and the medication. Both substances can have central nervous system depressant effects, which can lead to increased drowsiness, impaired coordination, and cognitive deficits.
Choice C rationale:
Experiencing drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of benzodiazepines. Educating the client about these potential side effects is necessary to promote safety and to avoid engaging in activities that require alertness while taking the medication.
Choice D rationale:
This statement indicates a need for further education. Abruptly stopping benzodiazepines can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may include increased anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and even seizures. Benzodiazepines should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Teaching relaxation techniques is a priority intervention for clients with panic disorder. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness, can help manage anxiety symptoms and reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. These techniques empower clients to regain a sense of control over their anxiety.
Choice B rationale:
Administering antianxiety medication can be a helpful intervention, but it should not be prioritized over non-pharmacological approaches like teaching relaxation techniques. Medications may have side effects and are typically considered after other strategies have been explored.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging socialization is important for overall mental health, but it may not directly address the immediate needs of a client experiencing panic disorder. Managing panic attacks and providing coping mechanisms should take precedence during the assessment.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring vital signs regularly is important, but it is not the highest priority for a client with panic disorder. Addressing anxiety symptoms and providing appropriate interventions to manage panic attacks should come first.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Advising the client to avoid triggering situations oversimplifies the management of panic disorder. Exposure therapy is a common treatment, gradually confronting feared situations to reduce anxiety.
Choice B rationale:
This choice reflects an appropriate understanding of panic disorder. Panic attacks are primarily driven by psychological factors, and reassuring the client that there's nothing physically wrong helps reduce unnecessary health concerns.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging the client to ignore panic attacks isn't therapeutic. Acknowledging and learning to manage the attacks, rather than suppressing them, is essential.
Choice D rationale:
While comorbidity exists, directly associating panic disorder with depression can be misleading. Not all individuals with panic disorder experience depression.
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