A nurse is reviewing the medication history of a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. The client reports taking alprazolam three times a day for the past year. The nurse should identify that abrupt discontinuation of this medication can result in which of the following adverse effects?
Seizures
Hypotension
Bradycardia
Constipation.
The Correct Answer is A
Seizures.
Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that acts on the GABA receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety.
Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, tremors, insomnia, and anxiety.
To prevent this, alprazolam should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.
Choice B is wrong because alprazolam does not cause hypotension when discontinued.
Hypotension is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in high doses or with alcohol.
Choice C is wrong because alprazolam does not cause bradycardia when discontinued.
Bradycardia is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in older adults or with other medications that slow down the heart rate.
Choice D is wrong because alprazolam does not cause constipation when discontinued.
Constipation is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in older adults or with other medications that affect the gastrointestinal motility.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The client exhibits signs of akathisia, which is a common extrapyramidal side effect of haloperidol and other first-generation antipsychotics.Akathisia is characterized by restlessness, agitation, and difficulty staying still.
Choice A is wrong because it does not identify the specific type of movement disorder the client is experiencing.
Choice C is wrong because tardive dyskinesia is a different type of extrapyramidal side effect that involves involuntary movements of the tongue, lips, face, and limbs.
Choice D is wrong because neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but life-threatening reaction to antipsychotics that causes high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic instability.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Thyroid function tests, serum electrolytes and serum creatinine levels should be monitored for a client who is taking lithium carbonate.This is because lithium can affect the thyroid gland, causing hypothyroidism or goiter.Lithium can also cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can increase the risk of toxicity.Lithium can also impair renal function, leading to increased serum creatinine levels.
Choice B is wrong because blood glucose levels are not affected by lithium.Choice D is wrong because liver function tests are not indicated for lithium therapy.
Normal ranges for thyroid function tests vary depending on the method and laboratory used, but generally include:
• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L
• Free thyroxine (FT4): 0.8 to 2.8 ng/dL
• Total triiodothyronine (T3): 80 to 200 ng/dL
Normal ranges for serum electrolytes include:
• Sodium: 135 to 145 mEq/L
• Potassium: 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L
• Chloride: 98 to 106 mEq/L
• Bicarbonate: 22 to 26 mEq/L
Normal range for serum creatinine is 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for men and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for women.
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