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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that can help calm the mind and is beneficial for individuals with anxiety disorders. It involves envisioning a peaceful scene or series of experiences that can distract from anxious thoughts. This method can be particularly helpful before bedtime to ease the transition into sleep.
Choice B reason: Lying in bed and trying to force oneself to fall asleep can actually lead to increased frustration and anxiety, making it harder to fall asleep. It's recommended to leave the bed if unable to sleep and engage in a quiet activity until feeling sleepy.
Choice C reason: Eating a substantial meal before bed can lead to discomfort and disrupt sleep. It's better to have a light snack if needed and avoid heavy meals close to bedtime.
Choice D reason: Restricting sleep can exacerbate anxiety and is not recommended. It's important to maintain a regular sleep schedule and ensure adequate sleep to manage anxiety symptoms effectively.
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.
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