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.".

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Avoidance reinforces fear conditioning and impairs extinction learning; exposure-based strategies are more effective in reducing panic symptoms and restoring functional coping through cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Choice B rationale: Panic attacks are driven by autonomic dysregulation and cognitive misinterpretation, not physical pathology; suggesting physical illness increases somatic focus and health anxiety, worsening panic disorder outcomes.

Choice C rationale: Ignoring panic attacks delays cognitive restructuring and emotional processing; distraction may help short-term but does not address underlying maladaptive beliefs or autonomic hyperarousal.

Choice D rationale: Comorbidity between panic disorder and depression is well-documented; shared neurobiological pathways and chronic distress increase risk for mood disorders, requiring integrated assessment and treatment planning.

A. Palpitations. B. Numbness and tingling. C. Increased appetite. D. Fear of losing control. E. Muscle weakness.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Palpitations, or a racing heart, are a common symptom of panic attacks. The body's "fight or flight" response during a panic attack can lead to rapid heart rate and sensations of palpitations.

Choice B rationale:

Numbness and tingling sensations, often referred to as paresthesias, can occur during a panic attack. These sensations are a result of the body's physiological response to stress, leading to altered sensory perceptions.

Choice D rationale:

Fear of losing control is a characteristic symptom of panic attacks. Individuals with panic disorder often describe feeling as though they are losing control over their thoughts, emotions, or even their physical actions during an attack.

Choice E rationale:

Muscle weakness can be experienced during a panic attack due to the release of stress hormones and the physiological changes that accompany the fight-or-flight response. This weakness can affect various muscle groups.

Choice C rationale:

Increased appetite is not typically associated with panic attacks. Panic attacks are more commonly associated with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or stomach discomfort rather than an increased appetite.

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A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder who is prescribed benzodiazepines. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is providing care to a client with panic disorder. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse expect to find during a panic attack? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with panic disorder who is prescribed pharmacological treatment. Which interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care? Select all that apply.

A nurse is conducting a nursing assessment for a client with panic disorder. Which data should the nurse collect during the assessment?

A nurse is providing education to a client with panic disorder about non-pharmacological treatment options. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?

Which class of medications is commonly used for the pharmacological treatment of panic disorder?

A nurse is providing interventions for a client with panic disorder. Which interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care? (Select all that apply)

Which statement accurately describes the nursing care for panic disorder?

Which of the following is a possible risk factor for panic disorder?

A nurse is providing interventions for a client with panic disorder. Which interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care? (Select all that apply)