contrary effects

I am an ICU RN. Often the MD's prescribe Ativan as an anxiolytic for our patients. It has been my over whelming personal and observed experiment that Ativan causes our patient to become much more anxious, confused and even combative. Every time I bring this up to the Docs they dismiss my concerns. If I have any other alternative meds, I always use them first and use Ativan as an absolute last resort. Is this a common reaction? Do other nurses have the same experience?