Question

Select a patient in the clinical setting who is receiving an anxiolytic or hypnotic drug. Develop a teaching plan for the patient. What nursing considerations must you consider when using this medication in this patient?

Answer 1

Answer:

First of all, show comprehension towards your patient and his or hers medical state. Remember these drugs are used on many pathologies or conditions, therefore the range of patients you have to deal with is wide. As this medications are known for creating dependency, several considerations must be taken into account. You must be able to manage the dosage, ways of administration, and onset effects of these drugs. You must know what effects to expect at first, and also possible side effects and how to manage them. Remember that respiratory depression is one of the side effects you must be more careful, as well as dependency. As for chronic use, you must be a guide to your patient on how to successfully complete treatment.

Explanation:

Benzodiazepines and hypnotics have peripheral and central effects. Central effects include sedation, hypnosis, decrease of anxiety, muscular relaxation and anticonvulsivant activity. And some of their side effects are dizziness, confusion, amensia, CNS depression and headaches.