Questions and Answers
What is the drug classification of Ativan?
The safe dose range of Ativan for PO administration is ______ mg TID.
1-3
The pharmacological action of Ativan is that it ______ the CNS and probably potentiates GABA.
depresses
Which of the following are therapeutic uses of Ativan? (Select all that apply)
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Which of the following is a possible side effect of Ativan?
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Alcohol consumption is recommended while taking Ativan.
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What should nursing interventions include for patients taking Ativan?
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Flumazenil (Romazicon) is an antidote for Ativan overdose.
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What outcomes indicate the effectiveness of Ativan?
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Study Notes
Drug Classification
- Lorazepam is classified as an anxiolytic and a benzodiazepine, used to manage anxiety and related disorders.
Safe Dose Range
- Oral dosage ranges from 1-3 mg three times daily (TID).
- Intramuscular (IM) administration is dosed at 50 mcg/kg, not exceeding 4 mg per day.
Pharmacological Action
- Acts as a central nervous system depressant.
- Likely enhances the effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.
Therapeutic Uses
- Effective for sedation and anxiety reduction.
- Utilized to manage seizures and treat extrapyramidal side effects (motor control issues).
- Aids in managing withdrawal symptoms from alcohol.
Side Effects/Adverse Effects
- Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy, and headaches.
- Can cause confusion, ataxia, slurred speech, blurred vision, and respiratory depression.
- May lead to gastrointestinal disturbances (constipation or diarrhea).
- Risks of physical and psychological dependence, hypo/hypertension, and bradycardia.
Medication/Food Interactions
- Alcohol consumption is contraindicated as it may enhance sedative effects.
- Avoid co-administration with antidepressants and other benzodiazepines.
- Hormonal contraceptives may interact with efficacy.
- Cigarette smoking reduces the effectiveness of lorazepam.
Nursing Interventions/Client Education
- Administer medication per physician directives; short-term use is standard.
- Gradually taper doses to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
- Educate on alternative anxiety reduction techniques.
- Warn about potential drowsiness and dizziness, especially in elderly patients, who may be more sensitive.
- Monitor for increased risk of falls in older adults.
Nursing Administration (Concerns)
- Ensure not to confuse lorazepam (Ativan) with hydroxyzine (Atarax).
- Keep patients in a supine position for at least 8 hours post-administration for monitoring.
- Rapid intravenous (IV) administration can lead to serious conditions, including apnea, hypotension, bradycardia, or cardiac arrest.
- Assess for signs of CNS depression; may also induce seizures.
- Monitor renal, hepatic, and hematologic function regularly.
- Flumazenil (Romazicon) serves as the antidote in cases of overdose.
Evaluation of Medication Effectiveness
- Assess for improvements in patient wellness and the reduction of pre-operative anxiety.
- Monitor enhancements in sleep patterns as an indicator of therapeutic effectiveness.
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Description
This quiz explores the classification, dosage, pharmacological action, and therapeutic uses of Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine used for anxiety management. Additionally, it covers the potential side effects and risks associated with its use. Test your knowledge on this critical medication!
