ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam related questions and content

A nurse in a psychiatric unit is providing discharge teaching to a client who has major depressive disorder and a new prescription for fluoxetine. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

  • A. Take the medication in the morning
  • B. Expect improvement within 24 hours
  • C. Discontinue the medication when symptoms improve
  • D. Avoid foods high in tyramine
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Take the medication in the morning. Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for depression. Taking it in the morning helps prevent insomnia, a common side effect. Option B is incorrect as improvement may take weeks, not 24 hours. Option C is wrong as stopping abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Option D is irrelevant as tyramine interactions are associated with MAOIs, not SSRIs.