Question

The physician orders a new medication for a client with generalized anxiety disorder. During medication teaching, which statement or question by the nurse would be most appropriate?

1. "Take this medication. It will reduce your anxiety."
2. "Do you have any concerns about taking the medication?"
3. "Trust us. This medication has helped many people. We wouldn't have you take it if it were dangerous."
4. "How can we help you if you won't cooperate?"

Answer 1

The best approach for a nurse to discuss a new anti-anxiety medication with a client is to ask if the client has any concerns about taking the medication. This encourages open dialogue and helps address any fears or misgivings the patient might have while adhering to patient care standards.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a physician orders a new medication for a client with generalized anxiety disorder, the most appropriate statement or question by the nurse during medication teaching would be: "Do you have any concerns about taking the medication?" This open-ended question is respectful and encourages dialogue, allowing the patient to express any fears or misgivings they may have, and provides the nurse with an opportunity to address these concerns directly. It meets patient care standards for consent and education about treatments they are receiving. Anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines, are often prescribed to reduce symptoms of anxiety, which include panic attacks, or extreme fear and worry. These medications work by affecting the central nervous system, providing sedation, decreased anxiety, muscle relaxation, and anticonvulsant activity. It's crucial for healthcare providers to explain these effects and address potential side effects and concerns a patient might have regarding their treatment for generalized anxiety disorder.