A nurse is teaching a client who has been prescribed alprazolam (Xanax) for anxiety. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

Monitor oxygen saturation and end-tidal CO2 levels.This is because midazolam (Versed) is a benzodiazepine that can cause respiratory depression and sedation, especially when given intravenously. The nurse should monitor the client’s oxygenation and ventilation status during and after the procedure to prevent hypoxia and hypercapnia.

Choice A is wrong because naloxone (Narcan) is an opioid antagonist that reverses the effects of opioids, not benzodiazepines.Naloxone would not prevent respiratory depression caused by midazolam.

Choice C is wrong because giving midazolam with food or milk would not prevent respiratory depression.Food or milk may delay the absorption of oral midazolam, but it would not affect the intravenous administration.

Choice D is wrong because reducing the dose of midazolam by half may not be sufficient to prevent respiratory depression.The dose of midazolam should be individualized based on the client’s age, weight, health status, and response to the drug. Reducing the dose by half may also compromise the quality of sedation and analgesia during the colonoscopy.

“I should take this medication only when I feel anxious.” This statement indicates a need for further teaching because alprazolam should be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the provider, not on an as-needed basis.Taking alprazolam only when feeling anxious can increase the risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Choice A is wrong because it is a correct statement.Alcohol should be avoided while taking alprazolam because it can increase the sedative effects and the risk of respiratory depression.

Choice C is wrong because it is a correct statement.Alprazolam should not be stopped abruptly because it can cause withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and seizures.

Choice D is wrong because it is a correct statement.Confusion and memory loss are possible adverse effects of alprazolam and should be reported to the provider.

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that is used to treat anxiety disorders.It works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity and produces a calming effect.The normal dosage range for alprazolam is 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times daily, with a maximum dose of 4 mg per day.Alprazolam has a high potential for abuse and dependence, so it should be used with caution and for short periods of time.