A nurse is reinforcing teaching for a client who has generalized anxiety disorder and has been prescribed alprazolam. Which of the following instructions should the nurse give the client?
"Stop taking alprazolam right away if you experience abdominal discomfort."
"Watch for drowsiness and light-headedness while taking alprazolam."
"Drinking alcohol decreases the effectiveness of alprazolam."
"This medication has a low risk for physical dependence."
The Correct Answer is B
A. Abruptly stopping alprazolam can lead to withdrawal symptoms, and abdominal discomfort alone may not necessarily indicate a need for immediate cessation of the medication.
B. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine with sedative properties, so drowsiness and light- headedness are common side effects. Patients should be cautious when engaging in activities requiring alertness, such as driving, while taking alprazolam.
C. Alcohol should be avoided while taking alprazolam due to the potential for increased sedation and central nervous system depression. However, it does not directly affect the effectiveness of the medication.
D. Alprazolam, like other benzodiazepines, has a high potential for physical dependence, and abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Patients should be informed about the risk of dependence and the need for gradual tapering if discontinuation becomes necessary.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Respiratory depression is a potential side effect of magnesium sulfate toxicity.
Administering calcium gluconate can antagonize the effects of magnesium on smooth muscle and cardiac tissue, helping to counteract respiratory depression and other symptoms of magnesium toxicity.
B. Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist used to reverse the effects of benzodiazepine overdose, not magnesium sulfate toxicity.
C. Protamine sulfate is used to reverse the anticoagulant effects of heparin, not magnesium sulfate toxicity.
D. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose, not magnesium sulfate toxicity.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
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