A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has depression and a new prescription for amitriptyline. Which of the following statements should the nurse include?
- A. Take this medication at bedtime
- B. Expect to see improvement within 24 hours
- C. Avoid eating foods high in tyramine
- D. Stop the medication once you feel better
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Take this medication at bedtime. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that can cause drowsiness and sedation, so taking it at bedtime can help minimize these side effects. It also helps improve adherence to the medication regimen. Choice B is incorrect because it takes several weeks to see the full effects of amitriptyline, not within 24 hours. Choice C is incorrect because tyramine restriction is typically associated with MAOIs, not tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline. Choice D is incorrect because abruptly stopping amitriptyline can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a potential relapse of depression.
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A nurse is caring for a client who has obsessive-compulsive disorder and engages in repeated handwashing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Encourage the client to stop washing hands
- B. Allow the client additional time to complete rituals
- C. Set strict time limits on compulsions
- D. Ignore the client’s compulsive behavior
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Allow the client additional time to complete rituals. This approach is known as a harm reduction strategy in managing obsessive-compulsive disorder. By allowing the client additional time to complete rituals, the nurse can help reduce the client's anxiety and provide a sense of control. Encouraging the client to stop washing hands (A) may increase anxiety and worsen symptoms. Setting strict time limits on compulsions (C) can also increase anxiety and lead to distress. Ignoring the client's compulsive behavior (D) can be harmful as it may reinforce the behavior. It is important for the nurse to be supportive and understanding of the client's struggles while working towards more effective coping strategies.
A nurse is teaching a client who has schizophrenia about the adverse effects of clozapine. Which of the following side effects should the nurse include in the teaching?
- A. Increased salivation
- B. Tardive dyskinesia
- C. Hypertension
- D. Photosensitivity
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Tardive dyskinesia. Clozapine can lead to this side effect, which is characterized by involuntary movements of the face and body. This is important to include in teaching as it can be a serious and potentially irreversible effect of the medication. Increased salivation (choice A) is not a common side effect of clozapine. Hypertension (choice C) is not typically associated with clozapine use. Photosensitivity (choice D) is not a common side effect of clozapine. Overall, choice B is the correct answer as it aligns with the known side effects of clozapine in individuals with schizophrenia.
A nurse is caring for a client who has a lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Withhold the next dose of lithium
- B. Repeat the lithium level test
- C. Administer the next dose of lithium
- D. Recommend a low sodium diet
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Administer the next dose of lithium. A lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L), so the nurse should continue the medication as prescribed. Withholding the dose (choice A) can lead to subtherapeutic levels and ineffective treatment. Repeating the test (choice B) is unnecessary as the current level is within the therapeutic range. Recommending a low sodium diet (choice D) is not directly related to lithium therapy.
A nurse is caring for a client who has post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
- A. Encourage the client to discuss past trauma
- B. Provide a structured routine
- C. Discourage emotional expression
- D. Limit social interactions
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Provide a structured routine. Individuals with PTSD often benefit from a predictable routine as it provides a sense of safety and control. This intervention helps regulate emotions and reduces anxiety by creating a stable environment. Encouraging the client to discuss past trauma (A) may worsen symptoms if the client is not ready. Discouraging emotional expression (C) can be harmful as it may lead to emotional suppression. Limiting social interactions (D) may increase feelings of isolation and exacerbate symptoms. It's important to prioritize stability and structure in the plan of care for clients with PTSD.
A nurse is creating a plan of care for a client who has anorexia nervosa. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?
- A. Weigh the client twice per day
- B. Prepare the client for electroconvulsive therapy
- C. Set a weight gain goal of 2.2kg (5lbs) per week
- D. Encourage the client to participate in family therapy
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Set a weight gain goal of 2.2kg (5lbs) per week. This intervention is appropriate for a client with anorexia nervosa to promote healthy weight restoration. Rapid weight gain can be harmful, so setting a realistic goal helps prevent complications. Weighing the client twice per day (A) can exacerbate anxiety and reinforce obsessive behaviors. Electroconvulsive therapy (B) is not indicated for anorexia nervosa. Encouraging family therapy (D) may be beneficial, but the priority is weight restoration.