A nurse is providing teaching for a client who has a new prescription for alprazolam to treat insomnia. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

"Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving."

"Monitor for peripheral edema."

"Take this medication with a high-fat meal."

"Take this medication every night before sleep."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine medication commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Here's the rationale for each option:

A. "Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving.": Alprazolam can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function, so it's essential for clients to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, while taking this medication. Providing this instruction promotes safety and prevents accidents.

B. "Monitor for peripheral edema.": Peripheral edema is not a common side effect of alprazolam. This instruction is not relevant to the use of this medication.

C. "Take this medication with a high-fat meal.": Alprazolam can be taken with or without food, but taking it with a high-fat meal may delay its absorption. Therefore, it is not necessary to instruct the client to take it with a high-fat meal, especially since this may affect the medication's effectiveness.

D. "Take this medication every night before sleep.": While alprazolam may be used to treat insomnia, it is not typically recommended for nightly use due to the risk of dependence and tolerance. Using it nightly can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms if abruptly stopped. Therefore, this instruction is not appropriate.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Grapefruit juice inactivates this medication - Grapefruit juice is known to interact with certain medications, but it does not affect the metabolism of diazepam. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.

B. It is important to avoid foods that contain tyramine - Tyramine is typically associated with interactions with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), not benzodiazepines like diazepam. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.

C. This medication must be swallowed whole - While it is generally recommended to swallow diazepam tablets whole with a full glass of water, this instruction does not encompass the full range of information necessary for safe medication use.

D. Diazepam can cause drowsiness - This statement is correct. Diazepam, like other benzodiazepines, has sedative effects and can cause drowsiness. Patients should be advised to avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving, until they know how the medication affects them. This is an essential aspect of patient education regarding diazepam.

A. A pretreatment electroencephalogram (EEG) will be done. B. High serum sodium levels can cause toxic levels of valproate. C. Thyroid function tests should be performed every 6 months. D. Liver function tests must be monitored.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. A pretreatment electroencephalogram (EEG) is not typically required before starting valproate therapy. EEGs may be used in the diagnosis and management of seizure disorders, but they are not a standard part of valproate therapy initiation.

B. High serum sodium levels are not associated with toxic levels of valproate. Instead, valproate can cause hyperammonemia, especially in individuals with urea cycle disorders.

C. Thyroid function tests are not typically required specifically for valproate therapy. However, valproate may interfere with thyroid hormone levels, so thyroid function tests might be ordered if there are symptoms of thyroid dysfunction.

D. Monitoring liver function tests is essential when taking valproate because the medication can cause hepatotoxicity. Clients should have baseline liver function tests before starting valproate, followed by regular monitoring throughout treatment. If liver function test results indicate liver damage, the healthcare provider may adjust the dosage or discontinue the medication. Therefore, this is the correct instruction to provide to the client starting valproate therapy.

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A nurse is providing teaching for a client who has a new prescription for alprazolam to treat insomnia. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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