The nurse is preparing a client for discharge who has been taking alprazolam long-term for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). When evaluating the client's grasp of the discharge teaching, which statement made by the client shows an understanding of the most important self-care goal?
It is essential not to abruptly discontinue taking the medication.
I should report any dizziness, lightheadedness, or sedation.
Attending individual and group therapy sessions is important.
I can report any decrease in anxiety using the 10 point scale.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam, a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including rebound anxiety,
insomnia, and potentially seizures. The statement reflects an understanding of the importance of gradual tapering and not abruptly stopping the medication. Choice B rationale: Reporting side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or sedation is important, but the key focus for long-term benzodiazepine use is the need to avoid abrupt discontinuation.
Choice C rationale: While attending therapy sessions is beneficial for managing anxiety, the question is specifically addressing the self-care goal related to medication use. Choice D rationale: Reporting any decrease in anxiety using a 10-point scale is relevant but not as crucial as emphasizing the avoidance of abrupt discontinuation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Reports difficulties with short-term memory since a traumatic brain injury is not an indication for using the CAGE questionnaire. The CAGE questionnaire is specifically designed to screen for alcohol use disorder.
Choice B rationale: Medical history, including recent sexual assault, does not directly correlate with the need for the CAGE questionnaire. The CAGE questionnaire focuses on identifying problematic alcohol use.
Choice C rationale: Describing self as a social drinker who drinks alcoholic beverages daily is an indication for using the CAGE questionnaire. The client's daily consumption and identification as a social drinker raise concerns about potential alcohol misuse or dependency.
Choice D rationale: Client's medication history, including the frequent use of antidepressants, is not an indication for using the CAGE questionnaire. The CAGE questionnaire is specific to alcohol use and does not address antidepressant use.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Speaking calmly and assuring the client of safety is a therapeutic intervention for managing severe anxiety and panic. It helps provide a sense of reassurance and safety to the client during an acute anxious episode.
Choice B rationale: Attempting to distract the client can be helpful in some situations, but in severe anxiety, the focus should initially be on providing a sense of safety and addressing immediate distress.
Choice C rationale: Helping the client identify thoughts is more appropriate during less acute moments or in the context of cognitive-behavioral therapy. In severe anxiety, the immediate focus is on providing support and reassurance.
Choice D rationale: Exploring past behaviors may be part of a comprehensive assessment but is not the first priority during an acute episode of severe anxiety.
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