A nursing student reports experiencing test-taking anxiety, including physical symptoms like a racing heart and trembling hands before exams. Which medication would the healthcare provider likely prescribe for episodic and acute symptom relief?

A. Propranolol: Propranolol is a beta-blocker that can be used to treat physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart. While it may help reduce physiological symptoms, it does not address the psychological components of anxiety and is not commonly prescribed for acute anxiety episodes like test-taking anxiety. Propranolol is more effective for individuals with performance anxiety (e.g., public speaking). B. Lorazepam: Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that works by depressing the central nervous system, providing rapid relief of acute anxiety symptoms. It is often used for short-term management of anxiety and can effectively reduce symptoms such as racing heart and trembling hands, making it appropriate for episodic anxiety like test-taking anxiety. However, it is typically prescribed for short-term use due to its potential for dependence. C. Sertraline: Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for chronic anxiety and depression, but it is not effective for acute episodic anxiety. SSRIs are typically prescribed for long-term management of anxiety disorders, rather than immediate symptom relief. D. Buspirone: Buspirone is an anxiolytic medication used for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) but has a delayed onset of action and is not effective for acute, episodic anxiety relief. It is more suitable for long-term management rather than immediate symptom control.