A charge nurse is instructing a newly licensed nurse about mental health disorders. Which of the following statements by the nurse indicates an understanding of mental health disorders?

A. Hypotensive shock: This is not the correct answer. MAO inhibitors are not associated with causing hypotensive shock. In fact, they can lead to an increase in blood pressure.

B. Hypertensive crisis: This is the correct answer. MAO inhibitors interact with certain foods and drugs, such as those containing tyramine, leading to an increased risk of a hypertensive crisis. Foods rich in tyramine, such as aged cheeses, certain wines, and some processed meats, can cause a sudden and dangerous increase in blood pressure when combined with MAO inhibitors.

C. Cardiac dysrhythmia: While all medications have potential side effects, MAO inhibitors are not typically associated with causing cardiac dysrhythmias.

D. Cardiogenic shock: MAO inhibitors are not known to cause cardiogenic shock. The primary concern with MAO inhibitors is the potential for a hypertensive crisis due to interactions with specific foods and drugs.

A. Note escalating behaviors and intervene immediately:

This option prioritizes the client's safety by addressing escalating behaviors promptly. Bizarre behaviors, neologisms, and thought insertion may indicate a severe episode of psychosis, and timely intervention is crucial to prevent harm to the client or others.

B. Interpret attempts at communication:

While understanding and interpreting communication are important, in a situation with escalating behaviors and potential safety concerns, immediate intervention takes precedence. Communication interpretation can follow once the safety of the client has been ensured.

C. Assess for medication noncompliance:

Medication noncompliance can contribute to exacerbation of symptoms, but in an acute situation where safety is a concern, addressing immediate behaviors takes precedence. Medication assessment can be done in the context of a more comprehensive assessment after the immediate safety concerns have been addressed.

D. Assess triggers for bizarre, inappropriate behaviors:

Identifying triggers is important for understanding the underlying causes of the behavior, but in the context of escalating behaviors and potential safety issues, immediate intervention to de-escalate the situation is the priority. Triggers can be explored once the immediate safety concerns are addressed.