A patient seeking treatment for anxiety says, "I can't think

Question

My job depends on my ability to think. I need medicine, but the drugs I took a few years ago made me too sleepy. I could lose my job." What information is most important for the nurse to consider when formulating a response?
a. All antianxiety medication has sedating properties.
b. Buspirone (BuSpar) alleviates anxiety without sedation or cognitive clouding.
c. The patient's description of anxiety does not warrant treatment with medication.
d. The patient may be trying to manipulate the nurse to assist with getting the desired prescription.

Answer 1

B
Buspirone's action is entirely different from that of the benzodiazepines. It reduces anxiety, with its accompanying concentration and cognitive problems, but without CNS depression. The patient's description of anxiety indicates that it is interfering with daily life, so medication may be helpful. There is no evidence that the patient is trying to manipulate the nurse.