A nurse is caring for a client who has been taking Xanax (alprazolam) for anxiety. The nurse anticipates which of the following?
The client's at-home dose should be decreased.
The client may need an increased dose to control symptoms.
Xanax (alprazolam) does not cause dependency.
Ativan (Lorazepam) can be added to the client's medications.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Decreasing the dose of Xanax (alprazolam) is often necessary when a client shows signs of dependency or when there are concerns about potential side effects, such as uncontrolled hypertension. Xanax is a fast-acting benzodiazepine, which can be highly addictive, especially when taken in doses of 4 mg/day for longer than 12 weeks. It is essential to monitor the client's blood pressure and adjust the medication accordingly to avoid exacerbating hypertension.
Choice B reason:
Increasing the dose may temporarily control symptoms of anxiety, but it also increases the risk of dependency and other side effects. Given the client's uncontrolled hypertension, increasing the dose could lead to further complications.
Choice C reason:
This statement is incorrect. Xanax does cause dependency, and it is one of the most addictive benzodiazepine medications on the market today. Dependency can develop quickly, even in users who follow a prescribed dosing schedule.
Choice D reason:
While Ativan (Lorazepam) is also used to treat anxiety, adding it to the client's medication regimen without careful consideration could increase the risk of dependency and adverse effects. Both Xanax and Ativan are benzodiazepines, and their combined use should be monitored closely by a healthcare professional.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Aspiration is a significant risk for clients with acute alcohol intoxication due to an impaired gag reflex. Alcohol can depress the central nervous system, leading to a decreased level of consciousness and a diminished gag reflex, which increases the risk of aspiration of gastric contents into the lungs.
Choice B Reason:
Impaired coordination and judgment are common in acute alcohol intoxication, increasing the risk of injury. Alcohol affects the cerebellum, the part of the brain that regulates coordination and balance, as well as the frontal lobes, which are responsible for judgment and decision-making.
Choice C Reason:
Alcohol is metabolized by the liver, and excessive alcohol intake can lead to alcohol toxicity and liver impairment. Acute alcohol intoxication can cause hepatic steatosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and even acute liver failure in severe cases.
Choice D Reason:
Dizziness and an unsteady gait are direct effects of alcohol's impact on the vestibular system and the brain's ability to process spatial information, leading to an increased risk of falls.
Choice E Reason:
Alcohol intoxication can impair immune function, making the client more susceptible to infections. Alcohol disrupts immune pathways in complex ways, which can impair the body's ability to defend against infections
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Missing a dose of medication that increases serotonin levels does not typically increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. In fact, missing a dose may lead to lower levels of serotonin in the body, which is contrary to the condition of serotonin syndrome that arises from an excess of serotonin.
Choice B reason:
Taking MAOI medication alone does not inherently increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. However, combining MAOIs with other medications that affect serotonin levels can significantly increase the risk. It is crucial to avoid taking MAOIs and other serotonergic drugs concurrently without medical supervision.
Choice C reason:
Taking SNRIs as directed by a healthcare provider generally does not increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. These medications are designed to be taken regularly to manage conditions like anxiety and depression. However, any changes in dosage or frequency should be done under medical guidance to avoid any adverse effects.
Choice D reason:
Combining medications that increase serotonin levels is the primary risk factor for developing serotonin syndrome. This can occur when a patient takes multiple serotonergic drugs, such as combining an SNRI with an SSRI, certain pain medications, or even some over-the-counter drugs and supplements that increase serotonin levels. This combination can lead to an excessive accumulation of serotonin in the body, triggering the symptoms of serotonin syndrome.
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