Author Question: A patient tells the nurse, I wanted my health care provider to prescribe diazepam (Valium) for my ... (Read 34 times)

laurencescou · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A patient tells the nurse, I wanted my health care provider to prescribe diazepam (Valium) for my anxiety disorder, but buspirone (BuSpar) was prescribed instead. Why? The nurse's reply should be based on the knowledge that buspirone:

a. Does not produce blood dyscrasias.
b. Does not cause dependence.
c. Can be administered as needed.
d. Is faster acting than diazepam.

Question 2

A patient has a fear of public speaking. The nurse should be aware that social phobias are often treated with which type of medication?

a. (beta)-blockers.
b. Antipsychotic medications.
c. Tricyclic antidepressant agents.
d. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

welcom1000 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Buspirone is considered effective in the long-term management of anxiety because it is not habituating. Because it is long acting, buspirone is not valuable as an as-needed or as a fast-acting medication. The fact that buspirone does not produce blood dyscrasias is less relevant in the decision to prescribe buspirone.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, are often effective in preventing symptoms of anxiety associated with social phobias. Neuroleptic medications are major tranquilizers and not useful in treating social phobias. Tricyclic antidepressants are rarely used because of their side effect profile. MAOIs are administered for depression and only by individuals who can observe the special diet required.