A patient who has been taking a benzodiazepine as a sleep aid for several months wishes to stop taking the medication. The nurse will suggest that the patient taper the dose gradually to avoid which effect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Benzodiazepines can cause physical dependence, and abrupt discontinuation after long-term use can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Gradual tapering helps to minimize or avoid these withdrawal effects.

A Patient Who Has Been Taking a Benzodiazepine as a Sleep