NSG552 / NSG 552 EXAM 2
Psychopharmacology - Wilkes
Actual Questions and Answers
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This Exam contains:
100% Guarantee Pass.
Multiple-Choice (A–D), For Each Question.
Each Question Includes The Correct Answer
Expert-Verified explanation
,### 1. What medical conditions may precipitate anxiety?
Answer:
- Endocrine: Diabetes Mellitus, Thyroid Disorders
- Neurological: Seizures
- Respiratory: COPD/Asthma
- Cardiac Disease
Explanation: Various medical conditions can mimic or exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
Hormonal imbalances in endocrine disorders, neurological events like seizures, pulmonary
limitations in respiratory diseases, and cardiac-related issues can all contribute to heightened
anxiety.
---
### 2. What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of benzodiazepines?
Answer: Benzodiazepines enhance the activity of GABA at the GABA-A receptor, act as
positive allosteric modulators, bind to specific receptor sites, and increase the receptor's
affinity for GABA.
Explanation: This results in increased chloride ion influx leading to hyperpolarization of the
neuron, thus reducing neuronal excitability and producing anxiolytic, sedative, muscle
relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects.
---
, ### 3. What are the effects of benzodiazepines in the elderly population?
Answer: Increased fall risk and hip fracture risk.
Explanation: Due to age-related pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes, elderly
patients are more susceptible to the sedative effects of benzodiazepines, resulting in impaired
coordination and balance, significantly increasing the risk of falls and related injuries.
---
### 4. What are the clinical concerns when prescribing benzodiazepines?
Answer: Potential for abuse and addiction; physical dependence and tolerance; known
limitations include rebound insomnia.
Explanation: Benzodiazepines carry a risk of dependency, particularly when used for
prolonged periods. Tolerance can develop, necessitating higher doses for the same effect, and
abrupt cessation leads to rebound symptoms, including anxiety and insomnia.
### 5. What is the first line of treatment for anxiety disorder?
Answer: SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are the first-line treatment for
chronic anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and panic disorder.
Explanation: SSRIs, such as escitalopram and paroxetine, are preferred due to their favorable
safety and tolerability profile, as well as their efficacy in reducing anxiety symptoms over
time through the modulation of serotonin levels in the brain.
Psychopharmacology - Wilkes
Actual Questions and Answers
100% Guarantee Pass
This Exam contains:
100% Guarantee Pass.
Multiple-Choice (A–D), For Each Question.
Each Question Includes The Correct Answer
Expert-Verified explanation
,### 1. What medical conditions may precipitate anxiety?
Answer:
- Endocrine: Diabetes Mellitus, Thyroid Disorders
- Neurological: Seizures
- Respiratory: COPD/Asthma
- Cardiac Disease
Explanation: Various medical conditions can mimic or exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
Hormonal imbalances in endocrine disorders, neurological events like seizures, pulmonary
limitations in respiratory diseases, and cardiac-related issues can all contribute to heightened
anxiety.
---
### 2. What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of benzodiazepines?
Answer: Benzodiazepines enhance the activity of GABA at the GABA-A receptor, act as
positive allosteric modulators, bind to specific receptor sites, and increase the receptor's
affinity for GABA.
Explanation: This results in increased chloride ion influx leading to hyperpolarization of the
neuron, thus reducing neuronal excitability and producing anxiolytic, sedative, muscle
relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects.
---
, ### 3. What are the effects of benzodiazepines in the elderly population?
Answer: Increased fall risk and hip fracture risk.
Explanation: Due to age-related pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes, elderly
patients are more susceptible to the sedative effects of benzodiazepines, resulting in impaired
coordination and balance, significantly increasing the risk of falls and related injuries.
---
### 4. What are the clinical concerns when prescribing benzodiazepines?
Answer: Potential for abuse and addiction; physical dependence and tolerance; known
limitations include rebound insomnia.
Explanation: Benzodiazepines carry a risk of dependency, particularly when used for
prolonged periods. Tolerance can develop, necessitating higher doses for the same effect, and
abrupt cessation leads to rebound symptoms, including anxiety and insomnia.
### 5. What is the first line of treatment for anxiety disorder?
Answer: SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are the first-line treatment for
chronic anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and panic disorder.
Explanation: SSRIs, such as escitalopram and paroxetine, are preferred due to their favorable
safety and tolerability profile, as well as their efficacy in reducing anxiety symptoms over
time through the modulation of serotonin levels in the brain.
