If a client with a history of substance misuse is prescribed lorazepam, what is the priority nursing action?

In the scenario where a client with a history of substance misuse is prescribed lorazepam, prioritizing a different medication is critical due to the potential for misuse and dependency associated with benzodiazepines like lorazepam. Clients with a history of substance misuse are at a higher risk for developing complications from medications that act on the central nervous system, particularly those that can create sedative effects.

By advocating for an alternative medication, the nurse is taking proactive steps to ensure the client's safety and well-being. It is essential to consider medications that do not carry the same risk for abuse or dependence, such as non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics or other classes of medications that may effectively address the client's anxiety without the associated risks. This approach aligns with best practices for managing patients with such histories, prioritizing their holistic health and mitigating the potential for exacerbating their substance misuse problems.