Lorazepam (Ativan) Overview

Study Notes

Action of Lorazepam (Ativan)

Enhances GABA effectiveness, particularly in the limbic system and reticular formation.
GABA acts as a neurotransmitter, reducing neuron activity and preventing overfiring.

Therapeutic Uses for Lorazepam (Ativan)

Treats anxiety, irritability, and insomnia.

Adverse Effects from Lorazepam (Ativan)

CNS: Dizziness and drowsiness.
CV: Orthostatic hypotension, ECG changes, tachycardia, apnea, and potential cardiac arrest.
EENT: Blurred vision.

Contraindications for Lorazepam (Ativan)

Avoid in pregnancy (Category D) and breastfeeding.
Contraindicated for hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines or benzyl alcohol.
Not suitable for individuals with closed-angle glaucoma, psychosis, history of drug abuse, COPD, or sleep apnea.

Precautions for Lorazepam (Ativan)

Use cautiously in children under 12, geriatric patients, and individuals with renal or hepatic disease.
Monitor for addiction and suicidal ideation.

Nursing Interventions for Lorazepam (Ativan)

Assess anxiety levels, mental status, mood, perception, affect, and sleeping patterns.
Monitor for drowsiness, dizziness, and suicidal tendencies.
Evaluate renal, hepatic, and blood statuses.
Watch for physical dependency and withdrawal symptoms including headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, weakness, tremors, and seizures.

Assistance and Guidelines for Lorazepam (Ativan)

Provide assistance with ambulation during initial therapy due to potential drowsiness and dizziness.

Client Education for Lorazepam (Ativan)

Not for everyday stress or use beyond 4 months; intended for short-term treatment.
Warn about potential habit formation and the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages.
Advise to avoid over-the-counter preparations, driving, alcohol, and activities requiring full alertness.
Stress the necessity of not abruptly discontinuing medication and the importance of slowly rising to prevent orthostatic hypotension.

Therapeutic Response for Lorazepam (Ativan)

Aimed at decreasing anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia.

Pharmacokinetics of Lorazepam (Ativan)

Metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys.
Average half-life is 12 hours for adults with 91% protein binding.

Medication Administration for Lorazepam (Ativan)

Can crush tablets if the patient has difficulty swallowing.
Dry mouth management includes gum, hard candy, and sips of water.
Administer the largest dose at bedtime and consider giving with food or milk to alleviate GI symptoms.

Description

This quiz covers the pharmacological action, therapeutic uses, side effects, contraindications, and precautions associated with Lorazepam (Ativan). Test your knowledge on this important medication and its implications in clinical settings. Perfect for nursing students and healthcare professionals.