A nurse is teaching a female client who has an anxiety disorder and is prescribed alprazolam (Xanax). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

The correct answer is choice C. Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to sit down and stop pacing (Choice A) might come across as authoritarian and dismissive of the client's anxiety. It's important to provide a more supportive and empathetic approach.

Choice B rationale:

Having a staff member escort the client to her room (Choice B) might further escalate the client's anxiety. The client may interpret this action as a form of containment or punishment.

Choice C rationale:

Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace (Choice C) is the most appropriate action. This approach acknowledges the client's anxiety and provides a calming presence. Gradually slowing down can help the client naturally transition from pacing to a calmer state.

Choice D rationale:

Allowing the client to pace alone until physically tired (Choice D) might prolong the episode of anxiety. Providing support and engagement is essential in managing the client's distress effectively.

Choice A rationale:

Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is a potential physical symptom of alcohol withdrawal. When alcohol-dependent individuals suddenly stop or reduce their alcohol intake, it can lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, resulting in elevated heart rate.

Choice B rationale:

Tremors (shakes) are common during alcohol withdrawal due to the suppression of the central nervous system by alcohol. Abrupt cessation of alcohol can lead to overactivity in the nervous system, resulting in tremors.

Choice C rationale:

Hallucinations can occur during alcohol withdrawal and are usually visual or tactile in nature. These hallucinations are often referred to as alcoholic hallucinosis and can be distressing for the individual experiencing them.

Choice E rationale:

Seizures can be a severe consequence of alcohol withdrawal. Known as alcohol withdrawal seizures, these episodes can occur within the first 48 hours after cessation of heavy alcohol consumption and are attributed to the hyperexcitability of the central nervous system.

Choice D rationale:

Hypotension (low blood pressure) is not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal. In fact, alcohol withdrawal often leads to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate due to the hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system.