Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms ( 9 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who has been prescribed benzodiazepines for anxiety disorder. The client tells the nurse that they have been taking more than the prescribed dose because they feel more anxious lately. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
This can worsen the client's dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms.
This can cause severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, delirium, or death.
Rationale: Taking more than the prescribed dose of benzodiazepines can lead to physical and psychological dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. The nurse should educate the client about these risks and advise them to consult with their prescriber before making any changes to their medication regimen.
While these therapies can be helpful for anxiety management, they are not a substitute for medication therapy for clients who have been prescribed benzodiazepines.
Correct answer: c) Educate the client about the risks of benzodiazepine dependence and withdrawal
Rationale: Taking more than the prescribed dose of benzodiazepines can lead to physical and psychological dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. The nurse should educate the client about these risks and advise them to consult with their prescriber before making any changes to their medication regimen.
Incorrect choices:
a) Encourage the client to continue taking benzodiazepines as needed: This can worsen the client's dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms.
b) Advise the client to stop taking benzodiazepines abruptly: This can cause severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, delirium, or death.
d) Suggest alternative therapies for anxiety such as meditation or exercise: While these therapies can be helpful for anxiety management, they are not a substitute for medication therapy for clients who have been prescribed benzodiazepines.