A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia and generalized anxiety disorder. The client has a prescription for alprazolam 0.25 mg PO every 8 hr PRN anxiety. For which of the following client statements should the nurse consider administering alprazolam?

A. The client states, "My heart is pounding out of my chest." This statement is indicative of anxiety symptoms, such as palpitations, which are often associated with generalized anxiety disorder. Alprazolam is commonly used to manage acute anxiety and can help alleviate these physical symptoms. Therefore, this would be an appropriate situation to administer alprazolam. B. The client states, "I see purple bugs crawling on the wall." This statement suggests hallucinations, a symptom commonly associated with schizophrenia. Alprazolam is not effective in treating hallucinations and may worsen the client's condition. Instead, the nurse should focus on antipsychotic medications or interventions specific to managing psychosis. C. The client tells the nurse he is a government agent. This statement suggests delusions, another symptom of schizophrenia. Alprazolam does not treat delusions, and administering it would not address the underlying psychosis. The nurse should focus on antipsychotic treatment and ensure safety and support. D. The client tells the nurse that he is too tired to attend the group meeting. While fatigue or lack of motivation may be present in clients with schizophrenia, this statement does not indicate anxiety or acute distress that would warrant the administration of alprazolam. Instead, the nurse should assess the client’s overall mental health and engagement in treatment but not administer alprazolam for tiredness alone.