A nurse is caring for a client who has been taking Xanax (alprazolam) for anxiety. The nurse anticipates which of the following?
The client's at-home dose should be decreased.
The client may need an increased dose to control symptoms.
Xanax (alprazolam) does not cause dependency.
Ativan (Lorazepam) can be added to the client's medications.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Decreasing the dose of Xanax (alprazolam) is often necessary when a client shows signs of dependency or when there are concerns about potential side effects, such as uncontrolled hypertension. Xanax is a fast-acting benzodiazepine, which can be highly addictive, especially when taken in doses of 4 mg/day for longer than 12 weeks. It is essential to monitor the client's blood pressure and adjust the medication accordingly to avoid exacerbating hypertension.
Choice B reason:
Increasing the dose may temporarily control symptoms of anxiety, but it also increases the risk of dependency and other side effects. Given the client's uncontrolled hypertension, increasing the dose could lead to further complications.
Choice C reason:
This statement is incorrect. Xanax does cause dependency, and it is one of the most addictive benzodiazepine medications on the market today. Dependency can develop quickly, even in users who follow a prescribed dosing schedule.
Choice D reason:
While Ativan (Lorazepam) is also used to treat anxiety, adding it to the client's medication regimen without careful consideration could increase the risk of dependency and adverse effects. Both Xanax and Ativan are benzodiazepines, and their combined use should be monitored closely by a healthcare professional.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Eating foods high in tyramine is not a risk factor for lithium toxicity. Tyramine is associated with dietary restrictions in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors, not lithium.
Choice B reason:
Engaging in activities that cause excessive sweating, such as running 4 miles outdoors every afternoon, can lead to dehydration. Dehydration is a significant risk factor for lithium toxicity because it can increase lithium levels in the blood, potentially leading to toxicity.
Choice C reason:
Drinking 2 liters of liquids daily is generally recommended for hydration and is not a risk factor for lithium toxicity. Adequate hydration can help prevent lithium toxicity by ensuring that lithium is properly excreted through the kidneys.
Choice D reason:
Eating 2 to 3 grams of sodium-containing foods daily is within normal dietary intake ranges and is not a risk factor for lithium toxicity. Maintaining a consistent sodium intake is important when taking lithium, as low sodium levels can lead to increased lithium retention and potential toxicity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Increased heart rate is not typically a sign of opioid overdose. Opioid overdose often leads to a decrease in the body's autonomic responses, which can cause a slowing of the heart rate rather than an increase.
Choice B reason:
Slow, shallow breathing is a hallmark sign of opioid overdose. Opioids can depress the central nervous system, leading to respiratory depression. This is a critical symptom and requires immediate medical attention¹²³⁴.
Choice C reason:
Constricted pupils, also known as pinpoint pupils, are another classic sign of opioid overdose. This occurs due to the action of opioids on the part of the brain that regulates the size of the pupils¹²³⁴.
Choice D reason:
Increased motor activity is generally not associated with opioid overdose. Instead, opioids tend to cause a decrease in motor activity, leading to lethargy and a lack of coordination.
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