A nurse is collecting data from a client who has been taking diazepam several times per day but recently ran out of the medication.
Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as a manifestation of withdrawal from diazepam?

Choice A rationale:

Hoarseness of voice can be a symptom of an allergic reaction, indicating swelling and inflammation in the throat. If the client’s voice is no longer hoarse after taking diphenhydramine, it suggests that the medication has been effective in reducing this symptom.

Choice B rationale:

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine and can often cause drowsiness as a side effect. Therefore, feeling more alert would not typically indicate that the medication has been effective.

Choice C rationale:

While headaches can sometimes be associated with allergic reactions, they are not a primary symptom that diphenhydramine targets. Therefore, absence of a headache does not necessarily indicate effectiveness of the medication.

Choice D rationale:

Increased appetite is not typically associated with the effectiveness of diphenhydramine in treating allergic reactions.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to chew the medication is not recommended for enteric-coated tablets as it could result in stomach upset or damage to the protective coating.

Choice B rationale:

Placing the medication on the client’s tongue allows for easier swallowing without compromising the integrity of the enteric coating.

Choice C rationale:

Dissolving the medication in juice is not recommended as it could damage the enteric coating and result in stomach upset.

Choice D rationale:

Placing the medication between the client’s cheek and gum is not typically recommended for enteric-coated tablets as it could result in discomfort or damage to the protective coating.