A nurse is caring for a client with anxiety disorder who is prescribed anxiolytic medication. What is the mechanism of action of anxiolytics?
Blocking the effects of adrenaline.
Increasing the availability of neurotransmitters.
Modulating the activity of glutamate.
Enhancing the activity of serotonin and norepinephrine.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Blocking the effects of adrenaline is not the mechanism of action for anxiolytics. Anxiolytics primarily target neurotransmitter systems in the brain, not adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) pathways.
Choice B rationale:
Increasing the availability of neurotransmitters is not the primary mechanism of anxiolytics. While neurotransmitters are involved, anxiolytics like benzodiazepines and SSRIs focus on specific neurotransmitter systems, such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) and serotonin, rather than merely increasing neurotransmitter availability.
Choice C rationale:
Modulating the activity of glutamate is not the primary mechanism of anxiolytics. Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter, and its modulation is more relevant to agents used in conditions like schizophrenia, rather than anxiety disorders.
Choice D rationale:
Enhancing the activity of serotonin and norepinephrine is the correct mechanism of anxiolytics. Medications like SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) work by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. Serotonin and norepinephrine play critical roles in mood regulation and anxiety modulation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Assist the client in challenging irrational thoughts.
Choice A rationale:
While medication may be a part of the treatment plan, the primary goal of establishing a therapeutic relationship is not to immediately prescribe medication. Building trust, rapport, and understanding the client's needs are initial priorities.
Choice B rationale:
Educating the client about relaxation techniques can be helpful, but the primary goal is to address the cognitive and emotional aspects of anxiety. Challenging irrational thoughts is a more central focus.
Choice C rationale:
The primary goal of establishing a therapeutic relationship with a client with anxiety disorder is to assist the client in challenging irrational thoughts. This involves identifying distorted thought patterns and helping the client reframe or replace these thoughts with more realistic and balanced ones.
Choice D rationale:
Developing measurable and realistic outcomes is an important aspect of the therapeutic process, but it is not the primary goal of establishing the therapeutic relationship. Measurable outcomes come after working through various therapeutic interventions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
"Tell me about your favorite hobbies."
Choice A rationale:
Asking about hobbies is a non-threatening way to initiate the assessment while building rapport. This choice encourages the client to discuss positive aspects of their life, potentially lowering anxiety levels.
Choice B rationale:
Suggesting avoidance might not be suitable for assessment. While avoidance might reduce immediate anxiety, it's not a healthy long-term coping mechanism. This statement overlooks the opportunity to explore healthier strategies.
Choice C rationale:
This open-ended question might be too probing for an initial assessment. It could make the client defensive or overwhelmed and might not yield comprehensive information about their anxiety and coping mechanisms.
Choice D rationale:
This statement invalidates the client's feelings and suggests that anxiety is insignificant. It fails to acknowledge the client's experiences and discourages open expression.
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