RN ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN Related

Review RN ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN related questions and content

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a depressive disorder and a new prescription for amitriptyline. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

  • A. "I can continue to take St. John's wort while taking this medication."
  • B. "I know it will be a couple of weeks before the medication helps me feel better."
  • C. "I expect this medication to raise my blood pressure."
  • D. "I should take this medication on an empty stomach."
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "I know it will be a couple of weeks before the medication helps me feel better." This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, typically takes a few weeks to reach its full therapeutic effect in treating depressive symptoms. This indicates the client understands the delayed onset of action of the medication.

Incorrect options:
A: "I can continue to take St. John's wort while taking this medication." - St. John's wort can interact with amitriptyline, leading to potentially dangerous side effects.
C: "I expect this medication to raise my blood pressure." - Amitriptyline can indeed cause orthostatic hypotension, not raise blood pressure.
D: "I should take this medication on an empty stomach." - Amitriptyline is usually taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.