ATI 2019 Mental Health Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI 2019 Mental Health Proctored Exam related questions and content

When alprazolam 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.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: avoid alcoholic beverages. This is because alprazolam is a central nervous system depressant, and alcohol also has depressant effects. Combining the two can potentiate sedation and respiratory depression. Reporting drowsiness (A) is important but not specific to alprazolam. Eating a tyramine-free diet (B) is relevant for certain medications like MAOIs, not alprazolam. Adjusting dose and frequency based on anxiety level (D) is not recommended as it can lead to misuse or dependence.