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Title: An older adult is prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin) and hydrochlorothiazide daily as well as lorazepam ... Post by: Jgibson15 on Jan 21, 2018 An older adult is prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin) and hydrochlorothiazide daily as well as lorazepam (Ativan) as needed for anxiety. Over 2 days, the patient developed confusion, slurred speech, an unsteady gait, and fluctuating levels of orientation.
What is the most likely reason for the patient's change in mental status? a. Drug actions and interactions b. Benzodiazepine withdrawal c. Hypotensive episodes d. Renal failure Title: An older adult is prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin) and hydrochlorothiazide daily as well as lorazepam ... Post by: sunmaid on Jan 21, 2018 ANS: A
Drug actions and interactions are common among elderly persons and predispose this population to delirium. Delirium is characterized by an abrupt onset of fluctuating levels of awareness, clouded consciousness, perceptual disturbances, and disturbed memory and orientation. The patient takes lorazepam on a PRN basis, so withdrawal is unlikely. Hypotensive episodes or problems with renal function may occur associated with the patient's drug regime, but interactions are more likely the problem. |