Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Anxiety Disorders Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Anxiety Disorders related questions and content

Following the death of a spouse, a client is prescribed a short-term use of lorazepam. Which is the best rationale to support taking this medication at bedtime?

  • A. Deters the client from driving under the influence
  • B. Prevents nightmares and obsessive thoughts
  • C. Induces drowsiness and sleep
  • D. Causes dizziness and lightheadedness
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Antianxiety drugs such as lorazepam can cause drowsiness and induce sleep. Because many clients with anxiety disorders also have insomnia, taking the medication at bedtime will promote sleep. Nightmares and obsessive thoughts may be decreased through the induction of sleep. Using the drug at bedtime is not for the purpose of deterring driving. This drug can cause dizziness and light-headedness in some clients.