A nurse is caring for a client who is prescribed alprazolam, a benzodiazepine for managing severe manifestations of anxiety. Which of the following should the nurse prepare to discuss with the client?
Foods that are known to be high in dietary tyramine should be avoided
increase the dose of medication as needed if relief of manifestations is not experienced.
Avoid driving or eating heavy machinery until you know how alprazolam affects you
manifestations should be expected after a few weeks of therapy.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Foods that are high in dietary tyramine are more relevant to certain antidepressant medications, particularly monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and are not a specific concern with alprazolam.
B. Increasing the dose of the medication without consulting the healthcare provider is not appropriate. Adjustments to the dosage should be done under the guidance of the healthcare provider.
C. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how alprazolam affects you.
This is an important safety consideration when using benzodiazepines such as alprazolam. Benzodiazepines can cause drowsiness and impair coordination, so clients should be advised to avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until they are aware of how the medication affects them.
D. Manifestations of anxiety should improve with the use of alprazolam, and relief of symptoms can occur relatively quickly. However, it is essential to inform the client that long-term use of benzodiazepines may lead to tolerance and dependence. They should not abruptly stop the medication without consulting their healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Using opioids to treat hallucinations is not a common reason, as opioids are not typically prescribed for this purpose. Hallucinations might be indicative of another underlying mental health condition that needs assessment and appropriate treatment.
B. Witnessing parents using drugs or alcohol to cope is a risk factor for substance use disorders, but it does not directly explain the client's initiation of opioid use. There may be other contributing factors, such as pain or anxiety.
C. Using opioids to promote sleep and rest is a possibility, especially if the client has chronic pain or anxiety affecting their sleep. Opioids can have sedative effects, which might be appealing to individuals experiencing sleep difficulties. However, treating pain and anxiety is often a primary reason for opioid use in such cases.
D. To treat pain and ease anxiety.
Chronic back pain due to a gymnastics injury and anxiety are identified as pre-existing conditions. The client may have started using opioids to manage chronic pain and potentially as a way to cope with anxiety. Opioids are often prescribed for pain relief, and individuals may misuse them to self-medicate emotional distress.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Focusing attention on useful tasks: While the client's actions involve tasks, the primary motivation is to reduce anxiety rather than simply focusing attention on useful tasks for their own sake.
B. Manipulating and controlling others' behavior: The client's behavior is more related to managing their own anxiety through compulsive actions rather than manipulating or controlling others.
C. Decreasing anxiety to a tolerable level.
In obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), individuals often engage in repetitive and ritualistic behaviors as a way to manage anxiety. The compulsive behaviors, such as cleaning and picking up after others in this case, serve as a mechanism to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event. These actions may provide a sense of control and temporary relief from obsessive thoughts.
D. Limiting the amount of time available for interaction with others: While the client's compulsive behaviors may limit social interactions, the primary purpose is to manage anxiety rather than intentionally limiting interaction with others.
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