ATI Clinical Exam Related

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A nurse is caring for a patient who has a new prescription for sertraline. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include? What instructions should the nurse include for sertraline?

  • A. Take the medication at bedtime.
  • B. Take the medication with food.
  • C. Avoid driving for the first week.
  • D. Report any weight loss.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Take the medication at bedtime. Sertraline is an antidepressant that is commonly prescribed to be taken in the evening or at bedtime because it can cause drowsiness. This timing helps minimize potential side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness during waking hours. Taking it at bedtime also helps with patient compliance. Choice B is incorrect because sertraline can be taken with or without food. Choice C is incorrect as there is no specific need to avoid driving only for the first week. Choice D is incorrect because weight loss is not a common side effect of sertraline and does not need to be reported.