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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
Elevated blood pressure and heart rate are not typically indicative of sedative-hypnotic drug use. These symptoms are more commonly associated with stimulant use or withdrawal from depressants.

Choice B Reason:
Increased energy and hyperactivity are also not indicative of sedative-hypnotic drug use. These are symptoms that might be observed with stimulant drugs or during withdrawal from depressants.

Choice C Reason:
Excessive drowsiness and sedation are hallmark signs of sedative-hypnotic drug use. Sedative-hypnotics, which include drugs like benzodiazepines and barbiturates, work by depressing the central nervous system, leading to a decrease in brain activity and causing drowsiness and sedation.

Choice D Reason:
While improved sleep quality and duration might be an intended effect of sedative-hypnotic drugs, they are not indicative of acute use or intoxication. These drugs are often prescribed to help with sleep; however, their misuse can lead to excessive sedation beyond normal sleep patterns.

A. "Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are not a concern while on this medication." B. "You should maintain adequate sodium intake." C. "You will need to take this medication on an empty stomach." D. "You will need your blood levels drawn weekly during the first month."

Correct Answer is ["B","D"]

Explanation

Choice A reason:
This statement is incorrect. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can be side effects of lithium and are concerns while on this medication. It is important for clients to report these symptoms to their healthcare provider, as they can be signs of lithium toxicity.

Choice B reason:
This statement is correct. Maintaining adequate sodium intake is important while taking lithium. Sodium levels can affect lithium levels in the body, and sudden changes in sodium intake can lead to lithium toxicity or decreased effectiveness of the medication.

Choice C reason:
This statement is incorrect. Lithium does not necessarily need to be taken on an empty stomach. It can be taken with or without food, although taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.

Choice D reason:
This statement is correct. Regular monitoring of blood levels is essential during the first month of lithium therapy to ensure that lithium levels are within the therapeutic range and to avoid toxicity. The frequency of monitoring may change based on the results and as treatment continues.

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A nurse is caring for a client who has been taking Xanax (alprazolam) for anxiety. The nurse anticipates which of the following?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of sedative use disorder. Which cue is indicative that a client has used a sedative-hypnotic drug?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is preparing to teach a client about the lithium prescription for treating bipolar disorder. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct Answer is ["B","D"]

Explanation

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