A client diagnosed with bulimia nervosa is to receive fluoxetine (Prozac) by oral solution. The medication is supplied in a 100-ml bottle. The label reads 20 mg/5mL.. The doctor orders 60 mg q day. Which dose of this medication should the nurse dispense?

A. A client diagnosed with hypomania who is speaking loudly on the unit: Hypomania involves elevated mood and increased activity, but it doesn't typically present an immediate risk of harm to self or others. While it may be disruptive, it doesn't have the same urgency as active suicidal ideation.

B. A client diagnosed with hypomania who is complaining of pain: Pain complaints should be addressed, but in the context of the given choices, it is not the highest priority. Assessing and addressing the potential for harm due to active suicidal ideation is more critical.

C. A client with a history of mania who is pacing in the hallway: Pacing in the hallway, while indicative of increased activity, does not necessarily indicate an immediate risk. The client expressing active suicidal ideations poses a more urgent concern that requires immediate attention.

D.A client diagnosed with mania who expressed active suicidal ideations

In determining priority, the nurse should consider the level of risk and the potential for harm to self or others. Suicidal ideation is a significant concern that requires immediate attention. A client expressing active suicidal thoughts poses an immediate risk to their safety.

A. fluoxetine (Prozac):

Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. While SSRIs can have side effects, significant alterations in cardiac or cerebral electrical conductivity and fluid/electrolyte imbalance are not typically associated with fluoxetine. The primary concerns with SSRIs are related to serotonin levels and can include gastrointestinal disturbances, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction.

B. Lithium (Lithobid):

This is the correct answer. Lithium is known to have potential side effects related to cardiac and cerebral function, as well as fluid and electrolyte balance. Monitoring blood levels of lithium is crucial to avoid toxicity, which can affect the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. Lithium toxicity can lead to symptoms such as tremors, confusion, ataxia, and, in severe cases, seizures.

C. venlafaxine (Effexor):

Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. While it can cause some cardiovascular effects, the concern for significant alterations in cardiac or cerebral electrical conductivity and fluid/electrolyte imbalance is generally lower compared to lithium. The primary side effects of venlafaxine are related to serotonin and norepinephrine levels and may include increased blood pressure and heart rate.

D. clozapine (Clozaril):

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia. While antipsychotics can have side effects related to metabolic changes, significant alterations in cardiac or electrolyte imbalances are not typically associated with clozapine as the primary concern. Regular monitoring for metabolic side effects, such as weight gain and changes in lipid and glucose levels, is important with antipsychotic medications.