A 69-year-old was prescribed a benzodiazepine 3 years ago. This medication regimen increases the patients risk for injury related to drug abuse and requires frequent patient assessment for which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
Easy bleeding
Shortness of breath
Forgetfulness
Daytime sleepiness
Unsteady gait
Correct Answer : B,D,E
A. Easy bleeding is not a common side effect or concern associated with benzodiazepines. This symptom is more typically associated with anticoagulant medications or conditions affecting blood clotting. While it’s essential to monitor for side effects, easy bleeding is not directly related to benzodiazepine use.
B. Shortness of breath is not a typical side effect of benzodiazepines. However, it is important to monitor respiratory function in patients on any medication, especially if there are signs of respiratory distress or if the patient is on other medications that might interact with benzodiazepines. A
C. Benzodiazepines are known to cause cognitive impairments, including forgetfulness. This is particularly concerning in older adults, who may be more vulnerable to cognitive side effects. Memory issues and confusion can impact daily functioning and increase the risk of accidents and falls.
D. Daytime sleepiness is a common side effect of benzodiazepines due to their sedative properties. This side effect can significantly affect daily activities and increase the risk of falls and accidents. It’s essential to monitor patients for excessive drowsiness, as it can impact their safety and overall quality of life.
E. Benzodiazepines can cause motor impairment, including unsteady gait and increased risk of falls. This is particularly problematic in older adults who may already have decreased balance and coordination. Monitoring for unsteady gait is crucial to prevent falls and other injuries related to impaired mobility.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Observing the patient eat a meal that he or she has prepared provides the nurse with direct, objective information about the patient's nutritional intake. This can help the nurse assess the patient's food choices, portion sizes, and overall dietary habits.
B. While this can be helpful in educating the patient about nutrition, it does not provide direct information about the patient's actual dietary habits.
C. This can provide some insight into the patient's dietary habits, but it may not be a complete picture, as the patient may not eat everything they have on hand.
D. This can provide some information about the patient's dietary intake, but it may be difficult for the patient to recall everything they ate, especially if their memory is impaired.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While it's important to communicate any concerns about medication adherence with the physician, the nurse should first try to address the underlying issue, which in this case is the patient's memory impairment.
B. While decreasing the frequency of medications may be possible in some cases, it's important to consult with the physician before making any changes to the medication regimen.
C. Relying on a family member to administer medications can be problematic, as it may not be feasible for them to do so on a regular basis. It's important for the patient to take responsibility for their own medication management, with the support of the nurse.
D. Memory impairment is a common problem in older adults and can affect medication adherence. Using a pill dispenser can help patients remember when to take their medications. Pill dispensers are often organized by day and time, making it easier for patients to keep track of their medication schedule.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.