A mental health nurse is teaching a female client who has an anxiety disorder about alprazolam.
Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
"Do not eat aged cheeses while taking this medication."
"This medication may increase your blood pressure."
"Use a reliable form of contraception while taking this medication."
"If a dose is missed, double the next dose of medication.".
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
Choice A is incorrect. Alprazolam does not have any known dietary interactions with aged cheeses. This information is specific to monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), not benzodiazepines like alprazolam.
Choice B is incorrect. While some benzodiazepines can have side effects like drowsiness or dizziness that might indirectly affect blood pressure, alprazolam itself is not known to directly cause an increase in blood pressure.
Choice D is incorrect. Doubling the next dose of medication if a dose is missed is dangerous and can lead to overdose and increased risk of serious side effects. The client should be instructed to contact their doctor if they miss a dose.
Choice C is correct. Alprazolam is a pregnancy category D medication, meaning it has positive evidence of fetal risk. Studies have shown an increased risk of birth defects, including cleft lip and palate, in babies exposed to alprazolam during pregnancy. Therefore, it is crucial for women of childbearing age to use a reliable form of contraception while taking alprazolam to prevent unintended pregnancy and potential harm to the fetus.
Additional teaching points for the nurse:
The nurse should inform the client about the specific risks associated with alprazolam during pregnancy and the importance of discussing alternative treatment options if pregnancy is desired.
The nurse should emphasize the importance of using a reliable form of contraception that is effective both during and after treatment with alprazolam, as the medication can remain in the system for some time after the last dose.
The nurse should provide the client with resources on contraception and reproductive health, and encourage her to talk to her doctor about any s or concerns she may have.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice b. Administer the morning dose of lithium.
Choice A rationale:
Preparing for gastric lavage is unnecessary because a lithium level of 1.0 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L) and does not indicate toxicity.
Choice B rationale:
Administering the morning dose of lithium is appropriate as the current lithium level is within the therapeutic range, indicating that the medication is being managed correctly.
Choice C rationale:
Holding the medication and assessing for early manifestations of toxicity is not necessary since the lithium level is not indicative of toxicity. Toxicity typically occurs at levels above 1.5 mEq/L.
Choice D rationale:
Checking the client’s medication record to assess whether the client has been refusing her lithium is not relevant in this scenario because the lithium level is within the therapeutic range, suggesting compliance with the medication regimen.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Suppression involves the conscious, intentional effort to push unwanted thoughts, feelings, or memories out of awareness. It is not evident in the client's statement, as they are not actively trying to forget or avoid their alcohol use. Instead, they are attempting to justify it.
Choice B Rationale:
Rationalization is the defense mechanism most clearly demonstrated in the client's statement. It involves creating false but seemingly logical reasons to justify unacceptable behavior or feelings. The client is attributing their alcohol use to external factors (their boss and job requirements) rather than taking responsibility for their own choices and actions. This allows them to avoid confronting the reality of their addiction and the need for change.
Key characteristics of rationalization that align with the client's statement:
Externalizing blame: The client places responsibility for their drinking on their boss and job, rather than acknowledging their own agency.
Minimizing the problem: The client suggests that their drinking was merely a necessary part of their job, downplaying the extent of their alcohol use and its negative consequences.
Avoiding negative emotions: By shifting blame, the client protects themselves from feelings of guilt, shame, and responsibility associated with their addiction.
Choice C Rationale:
Reaction formation involves behaving in a way that is opposite to one's true feelings or impulses. This is not evident in the client's statement, as they are not expressing overly negative or critical attitudes towards alcohol. Instead, they are attempting to justify their use of it.
Choice D Rationale:
Compensation involves overemphasizing a desirable trait or behavior to make up for a perceived weakness or deficiency. This is not evident in the client's statement, as they are not highlighting any positive qualities or accomplishments to offset their alcohol use.
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