Mechanism & Uses
What class is Lorazepam?
Benzodiazepine
Most common side effect of Lorazepam?
Drowsiness
What should you monitor after giving Lorazepam?
Respirations
Should patients drive after taking Lorazepam?
No
Patient is very sleep after Lorazepam— expected?
Yes
What neurotransmitter does Lorazepam enhance?
GABA
What respiratory risk is associated with Lorazepam?
Respiratory depression
What vital sign is priority?
Respiratory rate
What substance should be avoided when taking Lorazepam?
Alcohol
Patient RR 10 after dose, what do you do?
Hold medication and notify provider
What is a common use for Lorazepam?
Anxiety
What happens if combined with alcohol or opioids?
Severe CNS/Respiratory depression
What should be available when giving IV Lorazepam?
Oxygen/resuscitation equipment
Should you stop Lorazepam abruptly? Why or why not
No (withdrawal risk)
Which is priority: sleepy patient or RR 8?
RR 8
Besides anxiety, what emergency can Lorazepam treat?
Seizures (status epilepticus)
What paradoxical reaction can occur (especially in elderly)?
Agitation
What antidote reveres Lorazepam?
Flumazenil
What should patients do when standing?
Change positions slowly
Patient took Lorazepam and Alcohol— priority?
Airway/breathing
What effect does Lorazepam have on the CNS?
CNS depression
Long term use of Lorazepam can lead to what?
Dependence/addiction
How should IV Lorazepam be administered?
Slowly
Name 3 herb that should be avoided when taking Lorazepam
Kava (increases CNS depression)
Chamomile (enhances drowsiness)
Lavender (increases sedation)
Unresponsive patient after IV dose— what action?
Assess airway and breathing