A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a school-age child who was brought in by their parents and has scald burns to both hands and wrists. The nurse suspects physical abuse.

Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Insomnia is a common side effect of sertraline and many other antidepressant medications. It is not indicative of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by excessive serotonin levels in the brain.

Choice B rationale:

Constipation is a side effect of some antidepressant medications, including sertraline. It is not a symptom of serotonin syndrome, which presents with a combination of symptoms such as confusion, agitation, rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, muscle rigidity, and high body temperature.

Choice C rationale:

Dry mouth is another common side effect of sertraline and many other medications. While uncomfortable, it is not a sign of serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome are neurological and autonomic, involving changes in mental status, muscle activity, and vital signs.

Choice D rationale:

Excessive sweating, also known as diaphoresis, can be a symptom of serotonin syndrome. Other symptoms might include agitation, tremor, hyperreflexia, fever, dilated pupils, and diarrhea. If a patient experiences these symptoms while taking sertraline, it could indicate serotonin syndrome and should be reported immediately for medical evaluation.

A. Firmly massaging the uterine fundus helps promote uterine contraction and reduce postpartum hemorrhage.
B. Providing emotional support helps address the client’s anxiety and distress.
C. Administering oxygen supports tissue perfusion, especially as the client is showing signs of hypovolemic shock.
D. Weighing perineal pads helps quantify blood loss and assess the severity of hemorrhage.
E. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter ensures accurate output measurement and prevents bladder distension, which can interfere with uterine contraction.