A nurse is providing education to a client with panic disorder about the pharmacological treatment options. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?
"I should avoid medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain.”
"Antihypertensives can help reduce physical symptoms of panic attacks.”
"Antiepileptics can enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain.”
"Tricyclic antidepressants inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain.”
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
"I should avoid medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain." While avoiding medications that increase serotonin levels is relevant in some cases, it's not a comprehensive understanding of pharmacological treatment for panic disorder. Serotonin-related medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used for panic disorder treatment.
Choice B rationale:
"Antihypertensives can help reduce physical symptoms of panic attacks." This statement is not accurate. Antihypertensives are not commonly used to treat panic disorder. Medications like beta-blockers may be prescribed to manage some physical symptoms of anxiety, but they are not a primary treatment for panic disorder.
Choice C rationale:
"Antiepileptics can enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain." This is the correct choice. Antiepileptic medications like pregabalin and gabapentin can indeed enhance the effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps reduce anxiety and panic. These medications are sometimes used to manage panic disorder symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
"Tricyclic antidepressants inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain." While tricyclic antidepressants have been used historically to treat panic disorder, they are not considered first-line treatments due to their potential side effects and the availability of newer, safer options. The statement in Choice D is accurate but not as relevant to current treatment approaches.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement "I'm not worried about having another panic attack" indicates a lack of understanding of anticipatory anxiety. Anticipatory anxiety is characterized by the fear of experiencing future panic attacks, so this statement contradicts that concept.
Choice B rationale:
This choice is correct because it reflects an accurate understanding of anticipatory anxiety. Anticipatory anxiety is the fear of being in situations or places where escape might be challenging or embarrassing in the event of a panic attack. This fear often leads to avoidance behavior and can worsen the overall anxiety.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "I don't think my panic attacks are related to my thought patterns" suggests a misunderstanding of the connection between thoughts and panic attacks. In reality, panic attacks are often triggered by anxious thoughts and thought patterns.
Choice D rationale:
The statement "I believe my panic attacks are caused by a substance I'm using" indicates a different perspective on the origin of panic attacks. While substance use can contribute to anxiety or trigger panic attacks in some cases, anticipatory anxiety specifically refers to the fear of future panic attacks, not their immediate causes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Teaching relaxation techniques is a priority intervention for clients with panic disorder. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness, can help manage anxiety symptoms and reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. These techniques empower clients to regain a sense of control over their anxiety.
Choice B rationale:
Administering antianxiety medication can be a helpful intervention, but it should not be prioritized over non-pharmacological approaches like teaching relaxation techniques. Medications may have side effects and are typically considered after other strategies have been explored.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging socialization is important for overall mental health, but it may not directly address the immediate needs of a client experiencing panic disorder. Managing panic attacks and providing coping mechanisms should take precedence during the assessment.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring vital signs regularly is important, but it is not the highest priority for a client with panic disorder. Addressing anxiety symptoms and providing appropriate interventions to manage panic attacks should come first.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.