Adams_chap_14__Anxiety__partial

What are the common psychological components of anxiety?

Fear, apprehension, and dread.

List two common types of anxiety disorders.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder.

What symptoms may accompany a panic attack?

Palpitations, chest pain, feeling of choking, dizziness, nausea.

Which benzodiazepines are mentioned for anxiety treatment?

Lorazepam and clonazepam.

What strategies are preferred over pharmacologic treatments for anxiety?

Nonpharmacologic strategies, including therapy and relaxation techniques.

What is a major risk associated with short-term therapy using benzodiazepines?

Risk of dependence.

What is the duration for which benzodiazepines should be used?

2-3 weeks at most.

What is the mechanism of action for benzodiazepines?

They increase the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA.

What is flumazenil used for?

It treats overdose with benzodiazepines.

Name one potential adverse reaction of benzodiazepines.

Drowsiness or respiratory depression.

What should be avoided while taking benzodiazepines?

Other CNS depressants like alcohol and opioids.

What symptoms might indicate benzodiazepine withdrawal?

Tremor, agitation, and sweating.

How long does benzodiazepine withdrawal last?

It can develop in 2 to 10 days and may last several weeks.

What is buspirone primarily used for?

It is primarily used for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

What is a key benefit of buspirone compared to benzodiazepines?

It has less dependence and less sedation.

What food should be limited when taking buspirone?

Grapefruit juice.

What adverse reactions can occur when taking buspirone?

Drowsiness, lethargy, and disorientation.

Why should a patient not abruptly stop taking anxiety medication?

It may lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

What are signs of anxiety a nurse should assess for?

Behavioral signs like grimace and restlessness.

What is the purpose of tapering off benzodiazepines?

To avoid withdrawal symptoms.

What is a key teaching point for clients taking anxiolytics?

Warn clients not to self-medicate.

What is the common side effect of benzodiazepines on sleep?

They can suppress stage 4 sleep.

What is a common misconception about benzodiazepine use?

That they can be used long-term without risks.

What should patients with a substance abuse history consider regarding benzodiazepines?

Drugs may not be appropriate for them.

What is the recommended administration method for flumazenil?

It is injected.

What effect can benzodiazepines have that may appear paradoxical?

They may cause agitation or rage.

What is the therapeutic use of buspirone in comparison to benzodiazepines?

Easier to function with less abuse potential.

How long does it take for buspirone to have an effect?

1-2 weeks.

What should be monitored during benzodiazepine treatment?

Breathing and level of consciousness.

A nurse is assessing a patient experiencing a panic attack. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse expect to accompany the panic attack?

Palpitations, chest pain, feeling of choking, dizziness, nausea.

A 25-year-old patient reports sudden onset of palpitations, chest pain, and dizziness. What nursing assessment is essential to confirm a diagnosis of a panic attack?

Assess for feelings of impending doom or fear of losing control.

In the emergency department, a patient presents with chest pain and feels like they are choking. Which diagnostic test should the nurse prioritize to rule out other conditions?

An ECG (electrocardiogram) to check for cardiac issues.

A nursing student is learning about panic attacks. Which statement by the student indicates the need for further teaching?

Panic attacks can happen only after a traumatic event.

A patient with a history of panic attacks is admitted for treatment. Which nursing intervention should be implemented first to address the patient's anxiety-related symptoms?

Provide reassurance and establish a calm environment.

During a health assessment, the nurse notes the patient has a history of panic attacks. What question should the nurse ask to understand the frequency of these episodes?

How often do you experience panic attacks and what triggers them?

What drugs are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders?

Benzodiazepines (such as lorazepam and clonazepam) and buspirone are commonly used.

What are benzodiazepines primarily used for?

They are used for the short-term treatment of anxiety and panic disorders.

What are common side effects of benzodiazepines?

Drowsiness, dizziness, and increased risk of dependence.

What are some adverse effects of benzodiazepines?

Respiratory depression, severe drowsiness, and paradoxical reactions like agitation.

Who should avoid benzodiazepines?

Patients with a history of substance abuse, severe respiratory issues, or those taking other CNS depressants.

What is an important consideration regarding the duration of benzodiazepine use?

They should not be used longer than 2-3 weeks to reduce the risk of dependence.

How should benzodiazepines be taken?

They should be taken as prescribed, often on an as-needed basis for acute anxiety.

What key points should be included in patient education for benzodiazepine use?

Do not stop abruptly, avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants, and be aware of potential dependency.

What nursing interventions should be implemented for patients on benzodiazepines?

Monitor the patient's respiratory status, level of consciousness, and provide education on medication safety.

What is buspirone primarily used for?

It is primarily used for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and has less risk of dependence than benzodiazepines.

What are adverse reactions associated with buspirone?

Drowsiness, lethargy, and mild dizziness.

What food interactions should be considered with buspirone?

Grapefruit juice should be limited as it can increase buspirone levels.

What patient education is critical for buspirone?

Inform patients that it may take 1-2 weeks for full effects and to take it consistently.

What are nursing considerations for patients taking antidepressants for anxiety?

Monitor for increased energy, potential worsening of anxiety, and the need for ongoing assessment of symptoms.

What is primary anxiety?

Primary anxiety refers to anxiety disorders that are not triggered by another underlying condition. Examples: generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder.

What is secondary anxiety?

Secondary anxiety is anxiety that occurs as a result of another underlying medical condition or psychological disorder.

Examples: anxiety due to medical illnesses, substance abuse, or significant stressors.