A nurse is planning care for a client who is to receive alteplase recombinant for a thrombus in the coronary artery.
Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

= Answer is... Choice B. Administer flumazenil to the client.

Choice A rationale:

In the emergency department scenario described, the client has presented with symptoms suggestive of a diazepam overdose, indicating potential suicidal behavior. However, while evaluating the client for further suicidal behavior is an important aspect of comprehensive care, it is not the immediate priority in this situation. The client's lethargy and respiratory depression require urgent intervention to reverse the effects of diazepam overdose and stabilize their condition. Once the client's immediate medical needs are addressed, further assessment and intervention regarding suicidal behavior can be pursued as part of ongoing care and safety planning.

Choice B rationale:

Administering flumazenil to the client is the most appropriate next action in the management of a diazepam overdose. Flumazenil, a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist, effectively reverses the sedative effects of benzodiazepines such as diazepam by competitively blocking benzodiazepine binding sites on the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor complex. By antagonizing the effects of diazepam, flumazenil can rapidly restore consciousness and respiratory drive in clients experiencing benzodiazepine-induced central nervous system depression, such as lethargy and hypoventilation. Prompt administration of flumazenil is crucial for preventing further respiratory compromise and potential respiratory arrest in overdose situations.

Choice C rationale:

Monitoring the client's IV site for thrombophlebitis is an important aspect of nursing care during IV therapy; however, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. While maintaining IV access is essential for administering medications and fluids, including flumazenil in this case, the urgent need to reverse the effects of diazepam overdose takes precedence over monitoring for IV complications. Thrombophlebitis can be assessed and managed concurrently with the administration of flumazenil and other aspects of the client's care once their immediate medical condition is stabilized.

Choice D rationale:

Initiating seizure precautions for the client may be warranted in certain clinical situations, particularly if the client has a history of seizures or if there are concerns about potential withdrawal or rebound seizures following the administration of flumazenil. However, in the context of a diazepam overdose with central nervous system depression and lethargy, the primary focus is on reversing the effects of the overdose and restoring respiratory function. Seizure precautions can be implemented if indicated based on ongoing assessment and clinical judgment but are not the immediate next action following initiation of IV access and administration of flumazenil.

Choice A rationale:

Depression commonly coexists with eating disorders. Patients with eating disorders often experience profound sadness, hopelessness, and a distorted body image, leading to depressive symptoms. Addressing both conditions simultaneously is crucial for effective treatment.

Choice B rationale:

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) frequently accompanies eating disorders. Obsessive thoughts about body weight, shape, and food intake are common in individuals with eating disorders. These obsessions can lead to compulsive behaviors, such as strict dietary rules or excessive exercise, reinforcing the connection between eating disorders and OCD.

Choice C rationale:

Schizophrenia is not typically considered a comorbidity of eating disorders. Schizophrenia involves distorted thinking, hallucinations, and impaired emotional responses, which are distinct from the symptoms of eating disorders. While it's essential to assess patients comprehensively, schizophrenia is not a common comorbidity of eating disorders.

Choice D rationale:

Breathing-related sleep disorder is not a direct comorbidity of eating disorders. However, individuals with severe eating disorders, especially anorexia nervosa, may experience complications like sleep apnea due to extreme weight loss. While this is a potential issue, it is not a direct comorbidity of eating disorders for all patients.

Choice E rationale:

Anxiety often coexists with eating disorders. Anxiety about body weight, shape, and food intake is a significant concern for individuals with eating disorders. This anxiety can further perpetuate disordered eating behaviors, creating a cycle that is challenging to break without addressing the underlying anxiety.