A nurse is caring for a client who just received lorazepam 1 mg IM for anxiety. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Instruct the client to expect ringing in the ears.
Place the client in restraints for 1 hour.
Initiate fall precautions for the client.
Repeat the dose in 15 minutes if the client is still anxious.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Ringing in the ears is not a common side effect of lorazepam. This medication is more likely to cause drowsiness or dizziness, which could increase the risk of falls.
Choice B reason: Restraints should only be used as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted and the client is a danger to themselves or others. Lorazepam is used to reduce anxiety, not to sedate to the point where restraints would be necessary.
Choice C reason: Initiating fall precautions is a prudent nursing action after administering lorazepam, especially if given intramuscularly, as the client may experience drowsiness or dizziness, increasing the risk of falls.
Choice D reason: Repeating the dose in 15 minutes is not recommended. The effects of lorazepam should be monitored, and additional doses should be administered based on the client's response and as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Telling the client that the symptoms will improve over time without further assessment could be misleading. These symptoms could indicate lithium toxicity, which requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B reason: Lethargy, muscle weakness, and blurred vision can be signs of lithium toxicity. The nurse should recommend blood tests to check lithium levels and kidney function to rule out toxicity.
Choice C reason: Decreasing sodium intake is not recommended without a healthcare provider's advice, as sodium levels can affect lithium levels in the body. Sudden changes in sodium intake should be avoided unless directed by a healthcare provider.
Choice D reason: Continuing the medication as prescribed without addressing the symptoms could be dangerous. The symptoms reported by the client need to be evaluated to ensure they are not due to lithium toxicity.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Notifying law enforcement within 2 hours if the person cannot be found is important, but immediate action is usually recommended in such cases. The sooner the authorities are alerted, the better the chances of locating the individual safely.
Choice B reason: Giving the most recent photo to the police is a proactive step in case the person goes missing. It can help law enforcement quickly disseminate the information and aid in the search. However, this is a reactive measure rather than a preventive one.
Choice C reason: Placing a sliding bolt lock just above the doorknob can prevent the individual from wandering, which is a common and dangerous issue in people with advanced Alzheimer's disease. This measure helps ensure the person's safety by preventing unsupervised exits from the home.
Choice D reason: Ensuring the bedroom is dark while the person is sleeping may not be advisable. Adequate night lighting is important for preventing falls if the person needs to get up during the night. A completely dark room can increase the risk of injury.
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