Question

a client who is known to abuse drugs is admitted to the psychiatric unit. which medication should the nurse anticipate administering to a client who is exhibiting benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms?

perphenazine.
diphenhydramine.
chlordiazepoxide.
isocarboxazid.

Explanation:

Identify the clinical indication

The patient is experiencing benzodiazepine withdrawal, which can cause life-threatening symptoms such as seizures, severe anxiety, tremors, and delirium.

Evaluate the drug options

• Perphenazine: An antipsychotic medication, not used for managing acute benzodiazepine withdrawal.
• Diphenhydramine: An antihistamine used for allergies or mild sedation, ineffective for preventing withdrawal seizures.
• Chlordiazepoxide: A long-acting benzodiazepine commonly used in a tapering schedule to safely manage alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal.
• Isocarboxazid: A monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant, which is contraindicated and dangerous in acute withdrawal.

Select the correct intervention

Chlordiazepoxide is the standard pharmacological treatment to prevent severe withdrawal complications through cross-tolerance and gradual tapering.

Answer:

• Perphenazine.
• Diphenhydramine.
• Chlordiazepoxide. (Correct answer)
• Isocarboxazid.