The nurse is preparing a client for discharge who has been taking alprazolam long-term for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). When evaluating the client's grasp of the discharge teaching, which statement made by the client shows an understanding of the most important self-care goal?
It is essential not to abruptly discontinue taking the medication.
I should report any dizziness, lightheadedness, or sedation.
Attending individual and group therapy sessions is important.
I can report any decrease in anxiety using the 10 point scale.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam, a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including rebound anxiety,
insomnia, and potentially seizures. The statement reflects an understanding of the importance of gradual tapering and not abruptly stopping the medication. Choice B rationale: Reporting side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or sedation is important, but the key focus for long-term benzodiazepine use is the need to avoid abrupt discontinuation.
Choice C rationale: While attending therapy sessions is beneficial for managing anxiety, the question is specifically addressing the self-care goal related to medication use. Choice D rationale: Reporting any decrease in anxiety using a 10-point scale is relevant but not as crucial as emphasizing the avoidance of abrupt discontinuation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic and may contribute to electrolyte imbalances, but it is not the most concerning medication in this situation. Choice B rationale: Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), and the combination of an MAOI with certain foods or medications containing tyramine can lead
to a hypertensive crisis. The client's elevated blood pressure is of concern, and the nurse should notify the healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale: Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat hypertension. While it may contribute to blood pressure control, it is not the most concerning medication in this scenario.
Choice D rationale: Aspirin, at a dose of 81 milligrams, is often used for cardiovascular prophylaxis and is not the most concerning medication in this situation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:A. The drug that was ingested is the most important information because knowing the specific substance determines the course of treatment. For example, acetaminophen overdose requires administration of N-acetylcysteine, while opioid overdose requires naloxone. Different drugs have different toxic effects, antidotes, and supportive measures, making this information critical to providing appropriate and potentially life-saving care.
Choice B rationale: The time since drug ingestion is important because many interventions, such as gastric lavage or activated charcoal, are time-sensitive. However, without knowing the specific drug, it is difficult to determine whether these interventions are necessary or effective
Choice C rationale: Knowing the reason for the suicide attempt is important for overall assessment and treatment planning but may not provide immediate information for the current situation.
Choice D rationale: Past history of depression is relevant to the client's overall mental health, but in the context of a suspected drug overdose, the time since ingestion takes precedence.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today