After initiating treatment with alprazolam (Xanax), which is the most important initial action for the nurse?

The most important initial action for the nurse after initiating treatment with alprazolam (Xanax) is to monitor respiratory rate. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine, and one of its significant side effects is respiratory depression, especially when combined with other central nervous system depressants or in patients with respiratory conditions. Ensuring that the patient maintains a safe respiratory rate is critical, as inadequate breathing can lead to serious complications.

While checking blood pressure, assessing signs of anxiety, and evaluating liver function tests are important aspects of patient care, they do not have the same immediate implications for safety as monitoring respiration. Blood pressure could fluctuate due to various reasons but is less directly tied to the acute effects of alprazolam. Assessing anxiety levels is essential for evaluating the treatment's effectiveness, but it is not the primary concern immediately after starting this medication. Liver function tests are relevant for long-term monitoring, especially in patients with chronic use, but they are not an immediate concern following the initiation of treatment. Therefore, prioritizing the monitoring of respiratory rate is crucial to ensure the patient’s safety during the initial phase of alprazolam therapy.