An older client is being prescribed medication to help with sleep. What is most important for the nurse to teach a group of orienting nurses caring for geriatric clients?

Question

1. Lorazepam is the best benzodiazepine to use for sleep.
2. Medications for sleep disorders should be used for less than one month.
3. Some medications are not safe for an older client, regardless of dose.
4. A dose of an antidepressant medication is helpful for sleep.

Answer 1

2. Medications for sleep disorders should be used for less than one month.

Explanation: 1. Shorter-acting benzodiazepines such as lorazepam are suggested to be the better choice for older adults because these drugs have the best effects and fewer safety concerns.
2. Benzodiazepine therapy is recommended for short-term use not to exceed 2 weeks. Sleep disorder treatment should be limited to 3-4 weeks.
3. It is important to avoid using the benzodiazepines with longer half-lives such as diazepam since this drug is associated with a high abuse potential, daytime sedation and falls, and memory impairment. The health care provider should manage the client's regimen accordingly.
4. Low doses of tricyclic antidepressants are used for sleep disorders, too. Not all antidepressants have a sleep-inducing effect, though.