Author Question: Although serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used more commonly now to treat anxiety disorders ... (Read 59 times)

Arii_bell · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

Although serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used more commonly now to treat anxiety disorders than are benzodiazepines, for which patient situation does the nurse expect a benzo-diazepine to be prescribed instead of an SSRI?

a. The patient is 18 years old.
b. Anxiety has been present daily for 6 months.
c. The patient has compulsive repetitive actions.
d. The anxiety attack is severe with hallucinations.

Question 2

Which precaution is most important for the nurse to teach a patient who is prescribed any antidepressant drug?

a. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking this drug.
b. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while taking this drug.
c. Be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat when going outdoors.
d. Drink at least 3 liters of fluid every day while taking this drug.

thall411 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

D
Benzodiazepines, even when given orally, act within 30 minutes of administration. SSRIs need to build up to a certain blood level and may take as long as 3 to 5 weeks to reduce anxiety. When an anxiety attack is sudden or severe, a benzodiazepine may be most helpful, even if it is just given once.

Answer to Question 2

B
Most antidepressants cause some degree of drowsiness. Alcohol intensifies this action and can impair the patient's physical strength and mental alertness.