Psychiatric Drugs and Medications Q 38

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When monitoring a client who is taking benzodiazepines, the nurse should be alert for which CNS side effects?

  

     A. Blurred vision, anorexia, dysarthria

     B. Seizures, tremors, diaphoresis

     C. Ataxia, sedation, dizziness

     D. Libido changes, edema, dystonia

    

    

Correct Answer: C. Ataxia, sedation, dizziness

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These are common side effects. CNS and neuromuscular adverse effects may include euphoria, hallucination, ataxia, dizziness, seizure-like activity, and paresthesia.

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Option A: Anorexia is a GI effect. Gastrointestinal reactions may include retching, nausea/vomiting, and excess salivation.

Option B: These are side effects of acute withdrawal. Doses of 0.05 mg may be recommended, as a withdrawal from opioids may precipitate vomiting. This becomes an issue in the sedated benzodiazepine overdosed patient, as they may be unable to protect their airway.

Option D: Libido and edema are not CNS-related side effects. In neonates, less than 1% of patients treated with benzodiazepines experience laryngospasm and/or bronchospasm. They may also experience ventricular arrhythmias including ventricular bigeminy or premature ventricular contractions, vasovagal syncope, bradycardia, or tachycardia.

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