A nurse is caring for a client with anxiety disorder who is prescribed anxiolytic medication. What is the mechanism of action of anxiolytics?

"Development of coping skills."

Choice A rationale:

Increased risk of depression is not a positive outcome of nursing interventions. The goal is to alleviate symptoms and improve the client's well-being, not to introduce new mental health challenges.

Choice B rationale:

Reduced adherence to medical treatment is a negative outcome. It suggests that the client's anxiety might be interfering with their ability to follow recommended treatments, which is undesirable.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct choice. Developing coping skills is a positive outcome. It indicates that the client is learning effective ways to manage their anxiety, enhancing their overall quality of life.

Choice D rationale:

Impairment in personal domains is a negative outcome. Nursing interventions aim to improve functioning and minimize impairment, so this choice contradicts the therapeutic goals.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

Choice A rationale:

Fluoxetine is an example of an SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor), which is commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders and depression. It increases serotonin levels in the brain, helping to alleviate anxiety symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that enhances the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that reduces brain activity, leading to sedative and anxiolytic effects. It's used to treat anxiety disorders, although it can be habit-forming and is usually prescribed for short-term use.

Choice C rationale:

Propranolol is a beta-blocker that primarily treats hypertension and certain cardiac conditions, but it can also be used to manage the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heart rate and tremors.

Choice D rationale:

Gabapentin is not a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders, but it's sometimes used off-label to manage anxiety symptoms. It modulates the release of certain neurotransmitters, which can have a calming effect.

Choice E rationale:

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine commonly used for allergies and as a sleep aid. It's not a standard pharmacological treatment for anxiety disorders.