The nurse reinforces teaching for a client newly prescribed buspirone for generalized anxiety disorder. Which client statement indicates that teaching has been effective?

Question

The nurse reinforces teaching for a client newly prescribed buspirone for generalized anxiety disorder.  Which client statement indicates that teaching has been effective?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Buspirone (Buspar) is an anxiolytic medication that differs from other medications used to manage anxiety disorders (eg, benzodiazepines) because it typically lacks central nervous system depressant effects and has a low abuse potential. Therefore, buspirone has a favorable side-effect profile because it usually does not produce withdrawal symptoms, dependence, or psychomotor slowing (eg, slowing of thought, impaired movement). However, unlike other anxiolytic medications, buspirone does not work immediately. Onset of symptom relief occurs after 1 week of therapy, with full effects occurring between 2 and 4 weeks (Option C). (Option A) As with any medication, the nurse should advise clients to avoid driving until individual effects are known. However, it is unlikely that buspirone will cause psychomotor impairment and require cessation of driving or operating machinery for the duration of treatment. (Option B) Buspirone should be taken as prescribed and is not indicated for relief of acute anxiety or panic attacks. The health care provider may prescribe an additional medication with a fast-acting effect for panic attacks. (Option D) Buspirone does not cause physical dependence or tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms do not occur with discontinuation of use. Educational objective: Buspirone is an anxiolytic medication that does not have central nervous system depressant effects; therefore, it does not cause dependence, tolerance, psychomotor slowing, or withdrawal symptoms. Full therapeutic effects occur between 2 and 4 weeks of therapy.

The Nurse Reinforces Teaching for a Client Newly Prescribed Buspirone