Two months after beginning drug therapy with alprazolam, a client states, "I feel much better, but I can't believe how dizzy and light-headed I get, and sometimes my mouth feels dry." Which would be the priority response by the nurse?
"You will need to take this medication with food from now on."
"You should avoid dangerous activities because of the side effects you are experiencing."
"The medication is usually prescribed for a short time, and the side effects may go away."
"You can use sugarless gum or candy to relieve some of those symptoms."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason
Taking alprazolam with food may help with some gastrointestinal side effects but does not address the client's concerns about dizziness and light-headedness. While it is a practical suggestion, it is not the priority response when the client is experiencing symptoms that could affect their safety¹.
Choice B Reason
The priority for the nurse is to ensure the client's safety. Dizziness and light-headedness can increase the risk of falls or accidents, especially when performing tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Therefore, advising the client to avoid dangerous activities is the most immediate and appropriate response¹.
Choice C Reason
While it is true that alprazolam is often prescribed for short-term use and some side effects may diminish over time, this does not provide the client with a solution to their current symptoms. The nurse should address the client's immediate concerns and ensure their safety before discussing the duration of medication use¹.
Choice D Reason
Using sugarless gum or candy can help with dry mouth, which is a common side effect of alprazolam. However, this advice does not address the more serious side effects of dizziness and light-headedness that the client is experiencing. Therefore, it is not the priority response but can be included as additional advice¹.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The process of being approved for bariatric surgery is not relatively simple. It involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes medical tests, psychological assessment, and dietary counseling. The process can take several months to ensure that the patient is a suitable candidate for surgery.
Choice B Reason:
Behavioral therapy has been shown to be effective for clients seeking to lose weight. It involves strategies such as self-monitoring, developing problem-solving skills, and establishing a support network, which can lead to significant and sustainable weight loss.
Choice C Reason:
Obesity is known to increase the risk of morbidity and mortality. Excess body weight is associated with a higher risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.
Choice D Reason:
Diet and exercise are indeed critical components of a successful weight loss program. A combination of a calorie-restricted diet and regular physical activity is the most effective way to achieve and maintain weight loss.
Choice E Reason:
While weight loss drugs can be an adjunct to diet and exercise for weight loss, they are not universally safe and effective. They can have side effects and are not suitable for everyone. Their use should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and they are typically prescribed when lifestyle modifications have not been sufficient.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Smoking, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia are all well-established risk factors for heart disease. Smoking damages the lining of the arteries, leading to a buildup of fatty material which narrows the artery. Hypertension can cause hardening and thickening of the arteries, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Obesity increases the likelihood of high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes, all of which are risk factors for heart disease. Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease significantly, as high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control the heart. Hyperlipidemia, particularly high levels of LDL cholesterol, can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Choice B Reason:
Family history is a non-modifiable risk factor for heart disease, as genetics can play a role in an individual's likelihood of developing heart conditions. Stress can contribute to heart disease risk factors such as hypertension and is associated with other unhealthy behaviors. Hypertension and age are both significant risk factors; the risk of heart disease increases with age and with sustained high blood pressure.
Choice C Reason:
Alcohol consumption in excess can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, or stroke. Obesity, diabetes, and stress are all risk factors as previously mentioned. Hyperlipidemia is also a modifiable risk factor that can be managed through diet, exercise, and medication.
Choice D Reason:
Personality type itself is not a direct risk factor for heart disease, but certain personality traits can lead to stress, which is a risk factor. Hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and smoking are all direct risk factors for heart disease as they contribute to the development of cardiovascular conditions.
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