ATI Mental Health Practice Exam Related

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A patient is receiving education about dietary restrictions while taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Which food should the patient avoid?

  • A. Aged cheese
  • B. Fresh vegetables
  • C. Grilled chicken
  • D. Fruit juices
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Aged cheese. MAOIs interact with tyramine in certain foods like aged cheese, leading to dangerous hypertensive crisis. Aged cheese contains high levels of tyramine, which can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure when combined with MAOIs. Fresh vegetables (B), grilled chicken (C), and fruit juices (D) do not have high levels of tyramine and can be safely consumed with MAOIs. It is crucial for patients taking MAOIs to avoid foods rich in tyramine to prevent adverse reactions.