A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder who is prescribed benzodiazepines. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?
"I should take this medication as needed for panic attacks.".
"I should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.".
"I may experience drowsiness and dizziness as side effects.".
"I can stop taking this medication abruptly if I no longer have panic attacks.".
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Taking benzodiazepines as needed for panic attacks is an incorrect statement. Benzodiazepines are generally not intended for "as-needed" use due to the risk of dependence and withdrawal. They are typically prescribed on a scheduled basis to provide consistent anxiety relief.
Choice B rationale:
Avoiding alcohol while taking benzodiazepines is important due to potential interactions between alcohol and the medication. Both substances can have central nervous system depressant effects, which can lead to increased drowsiness, impaired coordination, and cognitive deficits.
Choice C rationale:
Experiencing drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of benzodiazepines. Educating the client about these potential side effects is necessary to promote safety and to avoid engaging in activities that require alertness while taking the medication.
Choice D rationale:
This statement indicates a need for further education. Abruptly stopping benzodiazepines can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may include increased anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and even seizures. Benzodiazepines should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Asking the client about coping strategies and support systems is an appropriate assessment question for a client with panic disorder. This question allows the nurse to understand how the client manages their panic attacks and identifies the resources available to them. The response can provide insights into the client's adaptive or maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Choice B rationale:
Inquiring about the frequency of panic attacks and their triggers is important, but this question may not be appropriate as the initial assessment question. It's better to first establish a rapport and gather broader information about the client's experiences before delving into specific details.
Choice C rationale:
Asking about current medications is relevant, but it might be more suitable after building rapport and discussing the client's overall situation. Focusing solely on medication can overlook other important aspects of the client's condition and coping strategies.
Choice D rationale:
Inquiring about laboratory tests is not directly relevant to the assessment of panic disorder. Panic disorder is primarily diagnosed based on clinical criteria, and laboratory tests are not typically used for diagnosis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement accurately describes panic disorder. It is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms. These attacks can lead to significant distress and avoidance behaviors.
Choice B rationale:
Panic disorder is not a type of depression; it is a separate anxiety disorder. While there can be co-occurrence of depression and anxiety disorders, they have distinct diagnostic criteria and features.
Choice C rationale:
Panic disorder is not related to substance abuse, nor is it influenced by biological factors that contribute to substance use disorders. It is primarily a psychological condition related to anxiety.
Choice D rationale:
The PDSS (Panic Disorder Severity Scale) is a tool used to assess the severity of panic disorder symptoms, not to diagnose the disorder itself. A diagnosis of panic disorder is based on clinical criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
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