A client has been taking increased amounts of alprazolam (Xanax) for about 6 months for anxiety. She asks the nurse how she can “get off the Xanax.” The most accurate answer by the nurse is which of...

A client has been taking increased amounts of alprazolam (Xanax) for about 6 months for anxiety. She asks the nurse how she can “get off the Xanax.” The most accurate answer by the nurse is which of the following?

1. “There will be an immediate discontinuation of the Xanax and haloperidol (Haldol) will be available if needed.”

2. “Instead of Xanax, you will take lorazepam (Ativan) in decreasing doses and frequency over a period of 3 to 4 days.”

3. “The Xanax will be tapered down over a period of 48 hours.”

4. “Xanax will be available on an as-needed basis for 4 to 5 days.”