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:
If the client reports a decrease in the frequency and severity of panic attacks, it indicates effective management of panic disorder. This outcome suggests that the treatment interventions are successfully reducing the occurrence and intensity of panic attacks, leading to improved overall well-being.
Choice B rationale:
While engaging in social activities and maintaining supportive relationships (choice B) is important for the client's mental health, it doesn't directly indicate the effectiveness of panic disorder management. The client might be socially active but still experiencing panic attacks.
Choice C rationale:
Demonstrating effective coping skills and positive self-talk (choice C) is certainly a positive outcome. However, this alone might not fully reflect the successful management of panic disorder. Effective coping skills are a part of the management plan, but the reduction in panic attack frequency is a more specific indicator of treatment effectiveness.
Choice D rationale:
Adhering to the prescribed treatment regimen and following up with appointments (choice D) is crucial for any medical condition, including panic disorder. However, this outcome doesn't directly measure the reduction in panic attacks, which is a more specific measure of successful management.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Substance abuse can be a significant complication of panic disorder. Individuals might turn to drugs or alcohol in attempts to self-medicate or alleviate symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Hypertension isn't a primary complication of panic disorder. Panic attacks can lead to transient increases in blood pressure, but chronic hypertension isn't a well-documented outcome.
Choice C rationale:
Diabetes and panic disorder aren't directly linked. However, chronic stress and anxiety could potentially influence blood sugar levels in those predisposed to diabetes.
Choice D rationale:
Osteoporosis isn't a known complication of panic disorder. There's no physiological connection between panic attacks and bone health.
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