A nurse is collecting data from client who has just begun therapy with alprazolam to treat anxiety. The nurse should observe the client for which of the following adverse effects of this medication?
Hypertension
Hearing loss
Sedation
Bradycardia
The Correct Answer is C
A. Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine, typically doesn't cause hypertension. Its primary mechanism of action involves modulation of GABA receptors in the central nervous system, leading to anxiolytic effects rather than effects on blood pressure regulation.
B. There's no documented association between alprazolam use and hearing loss.
Benzodiazepines like alprazolam primarily affect the central nervous system and do not target auditory structures.
C. Sedation is a common side effect of alprazolam due to its CNS depressant properties.
Patients often experience drowsiness, fatigue, and impaired cognitive function, especially when initiating therapy or when doses are increased.
D. Alprazolam typically doesn't cause bradycardia. While it can have mild effects on heart rate, such as tachycardia, significant bradycardia is not a documented adverse effect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Lithium can cause hypothyroidism and goiter as adverse effects. Therefore, monitoring of thyroid function and physical examination for thyroid enlargement is necessary during lithium therapy.
B. Constipation is not a typical adverse effect of lithium carbonate. It's more commonly associated with side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or polyuria.
C. Hyporeflexia is not commonly associated with lithium carbonate use. Lithium more commonly affects the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as tremors, confusion, and seizures in cases of toxicity.
D. Lithium is more commonly associated with the opposite effect, lowering blood pressure rather than elevating it. It's known to have effects on sodium transport in renal tubules, leading to increased water retention and possibly hypotension.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Benztropine, an anticholinergic medication, can cause urinary retention or difficulty with urination as a side effect due to its anticholinergic properties. Clients should be instructed to report any difficulty voiding promptly, as it can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections or bladder distention.
B. Benztropine is not typically associated with diarrhea as an adverse effect.
C. While anticholinergic medications can cause tachycardia (increased heart rate) due to their anticholinergic effects, they are not associated with slow pulse.
D. Benztropine is used to decrease excessive salivation (sialorrhea) rather than causing it as an adverse effect.
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