Directions
Two months ago, you saw Rupesh Shetty, a 34-year-old nurse, to whom you prescribed fluoxetine to 20 mg daily and buspirone 5 mg po BID for anxiety. Today, Rupesh Shetty, his mom, and his life partner, Duncan, present for a follow-up visit. You note that his chart indicates that his PCP prescribed him alprazolam (Xanax) 1 mg, three times a day as needed for anxiety.
Questions
After an extensive assessment of Rupesh, you conclude that he needs to be admitted inpatient because of his dependence on benzodiazepines. Rupesh is unwilling to go inpatient and asks you to just prescribe something to help him get off the alprazolam (Xanax).
In a 5- to 10-minute video, explain to Rupesh, Duncan, and Suma the following:
- 1-Why is it so important for Rupesh to go inpatient? What are the risks of detoxing off alprazolam (Xanax) on his own?
- 2-How does alprazolam (Xanax) work? What makes the medication so addictive?
- 3-How do you answer Suma when she asks why anybody would prescribe alprazolam (Xanax) for Rupesh?
- 4-Are there any special considerations for Rupesh because he is a registered nurse?
- 5-What are the rules and regulations in your state of practice for impaired nurses?
- 6-What resources are in your community for addiction? Are there any resources specifically for benzodiazepines?
Remember to use language that is easy to understand because Duncan and Suma are not medical professionals. In your post, provide two peer-reviewed references that support your statements in the video and a link to online information for Rupesh about impaired nurses.