The patient has generalized anxiety disorder. He asks the nurse, "Will I need medication for this? My neighbor is very nervous and he takes medication." What is the best response by the nurse?

Question

1. "Medications are a way of life for patients with anxiety disorders."
2. "Medication is necessary initially; later we will try therapy."
3. "Probably not, but you shouldn't compare yourself to your neighbor."
4. "Medication is necessary when anxiety interferes with your quality of life."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale: It is more productive to identify and treat the cause of anxiety than to use medications. When anxiety becomes severe enough to significantly interfere with the patient's quality of life, pharmacotherapy is indicated. Medications are not considered "a way of life" for patients with anxiety disorders; many patients can manage anxiety without medications. The nurse does not have enough information to tell the patient that medications will probably not be necessary. Medication combined with therapy is considered the best approach for treatment of anxiety disorders.