When alprazolam (Xanax) is prescribed for a patient who ...

[lidoalex]

When alprazolam (Xanax) is prescribed for a patient who experiences 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 experiencing panic suddenly began running and shouting, I'm going to explode Select the nurse's best action.
 
  a. Ask, I'm not sure what you mean. Give me an example.
  b. Capture the patient in a basket-hold to increase feelings of control.
  c. Tell the patient, Stop running and take a deep breath. I will help you.
  d. Assemble several staff members and say, We will take you to seclusion to help you regain control.

[livaneabi]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Drinking alcohol or taking other anxiolytics 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
Safety needs of the patient and other patients are a priority. Comments to the patient should be simple, neutral, and give direction to help the patient regain control. Running after the patient will increase the patient's anxiety. More than one staff member may be needed to provide physical limits, but using seclusion or physically restraining the patient prematurely is unjustified. Asking the patient to give an example would be futile; a patient in panic processes information poorly.