When alprazolam (Xanax) is prescribed for acute anxiety, health ...

[s.tung]

When alprazolam (Xanax) is prescribed for acute anxiety, health teaching should include instructions to:
 
  a. Report drowsiness.
  b. Eat a tyramine-free diet.
  c. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
  d. Adjust dose and frequency based on anxiety level.

Question 2

A patient has the nursing diagnosis: Anxiety, related to __________, as evidenced by an inability to control compulsive cleaning. Which phrase correctly completes the etiologic portion of the diagnosis?
 
  a. Ensuring the health of household members
  b. Attempting to avoid interactions with others
  c. Having persistent thoughts about bacteria, germs, and dirt
  d. Needing approval for cleanliness from friends and family

[ciecieme]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Drinking alcohol or taking other anxiolytic medications along with the prescribed benzodiazepine should be avoided because depressant effects of both drugs will be potentiated. Tyramine-free diets are necessary only with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Drowsiness is an expected effect and needs to be reported only if it is excessive. Patients should be taught not to deviate from the prescribed dose and schedule for administration.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Many compulsive rituals accompany obsessive thoughts. The patient uses these rituals to relief anxiety. Unfortunately, the anxiety relief is short lived, and the patient must frequently repeat the ritual. The other options are unrelated to the dynamics of compulsive behavior.