A patient is given lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, to decrease symptoms of anxiety and restlessness on the evening prior to planned surgery. The nurse knows that the patient is experiencing a paradoxical drug reaction when which of the following is assessed?
A macular rash on the chest and back.
Increased appetite.
Drowsiness and mild sedation.
Increased agitation and insomnia.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
A macular rash on the chest and back is not indicative of a paradoxical drug reaction to lorazepam, a benzodiazepine. Paradoxical reactions involve unexpected and opposite responses to a medication, such as increased agitation and excitement instead of the intended calming effect. A rash is not consistent with this type of reaction.
Choice B rationale:
Increased appetite is not associated with a paradoxical drug reaction to lorazepam. Paradoxical reactions involve behavioral and physiological responses that are contrary to the expected effects of the medication. Increased appetite does not fit this pattern.
Choice C rationale:
Drowsiness and mild sedation are the intended effects of lorazepam, a benzodiazepine. Paradoxical reactions are characterized by unexpected and opposite responses. Drowsiness and mild sedation align with the expected pharmacological actions of benzodiazepines, making this choice incorrect for a paradoxical reaction.
Choice D rationale:
Increased agitation and insomnia are indicative of a paradoxical drug reaction to lorazepam. Benzodiazepines like lorazepam are central nervous system depressants and are commonly used to treat anxiety and promote sedation. However, in some cases, paradoxical reactions can occur, leading to increased agitation, excitement, and even insomnia. These reactions are thought to be more common in children and older adults. This choice is correct because it aligns with the characteristics of a paradoxical reaction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Decreased tactile fremitus refers to a decreased vibration felt upon palpation of the chest, which might be indicative of conditions such as pleural effusion or pneumothorax. It is not directly associated with a crackling sensation.
Choice B rationale:
Pleural friction fremitus occurs when inflamed pleural surfaces rub against each other during breathing. It typically results in a grating sensation rather than a crackling sensation. It is associated with conditions like pleuritis.
Choice C rationale:
(Correct Choice) Crepitus refers to a crackling or grating sound/sensation that occurs when gas or air accumulates in the subcutaneous tissue. It can indicate a serious condition, such as subcutaneous emphysema, which might result from lung or chest wall injury, infections, or surgery.
Choice D rationale:
Rhonchal fremitus is associated with coarse breath sounds caused by thick secretions in the larger airways. It is felt as vibration during palpation and is not related to crackling sensations.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Asking the patient why this medication has been ordered is not the appropriate action because patients might not have accurate medical knowledge to provide a valid explanation for the prescription. The nurse should rely on healthcare professionals for accurate information.
Choice B rationale:
Verifying with the hospital administration is not necessary in this situation. The decision to prescribe medication is made by the healthcare provider, not the hospital administration.
Choice C rationale:
Verifying with the prescribing healthcare provider is the most appropriate action. The healthcare provider has the medical knowledge and rationale for prescribing a specific medication. This ensures that the nurse administers the medication safely and in alignment with the patient's condition and treatment plan.
Choice D rationale:
Asking another nurse might not yield accurate information about the rationale behind the medication order. It's best to directly communicate with the healthcare provider responsible for the patient's care.
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