A nurse is assessing a client who has been taking sertraline for 2 weeks. The nurse should identify which of the following findings as an indication that the medication is effective?
The client's blood pressure is within the expected reference range.
The client's legs are not swollen.
The client reports a recent weight loss
The client reports increase in mood.
The Correct Answer is D
A. The client's blood pressure is within the expected reference range - While blood pressure monitoring is important during treatment with certain medications, such as antihypertensives, it is not a direct indicator of the effectiveness of sertraline, which is an antidepressant medication.
B. The client's legs are not swollen - Swelling of the legs may be a sign of fluid retention, which can occur with various conditions and medications. However, it is not a specific indicator of the effectiveness of sertraline.
C. The client reports a recent weight loss - Weight changes, including weight loss or gain, can occur as side effects of sertraline. However, weight changes alone do not necessarily indicate the effectiveness of the medication in treating depression.
D. The client reports an increase in mood - Improvement in mood, reduction in depressive symptoms, and overall sense of well-being are primary indicators of the effectiveness of sertraline and other antidepressant medications in treating depression. Therefore, the client reporting an increase in mood suggests that the medication may be effective in managing their symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
A. Pharmacists: Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who are highly knowledgeable about medications, including their indications, dosages, contraindications, interactions, and administration routes. They play a crucial role in ensuring safe medication administration by providing accurate information and counseling to both healthcare providers and patients.
B. Published journals: Published journals contain peer-reviewed articles and research studies on various aspects of medication administration, including best practices, guidelines, new developments, and evidence-based recommendations. Healthcare professionals often refer to reputable journals to stay updated on the latest information and advancements in medication administration.
C. Physicians Desk Reference (PDR): The Physicians Desk Reference is a comprehensive reference book that provides information on prescription drugs, including their indications, dosages, side effects, and interactions. It is commonly used by healthcare providers as a reliable source of medication information to support safe prescribing and administration practices.
D. Pharmaceutical sales representatives: While pharmaceutical sales representatives may provide information about specific medications, their primary role is to promote and market pharmaceutical products. While they may offer valuable information about medication characteristics, their input may be biased toward promoting specific products rather than providing comprehensive and unbiased information about medication administration. Therefore, they are not typically considered acceptable references for safe medication administration.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Lithium is a mood stabilizer commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder, but it has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is small. Therefore, it's crucial for the client to recognize the signs of lithium toxicity. Here's the rationale for each option:
A. "Vomiting is an indication of toxicity.": This statement is correct. Vomiting is one of the early signs of lithium toxicity and should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately.
B. "I will report any loss of appetite.": While loss of appetite can be a symptom of lithium toxicity, it is not one of the most common or specific signs. Other symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and confusion, are more indicative of lithium toxicity.
C. "I will call my provider if I experience any headaches.": Headaches are not typically associated with lithium toxicity. Symptoms such as severe diarrhea, tremors, confusion, and decreased coordination are more indicative of lithium toxicity.
D. "Increased flatulence is an indication of toxicity.": Increased flatulence is not a typical manifestation of lithium toxicity. Symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, tremors, confusion, and changes in coordination are more common signs of toxicity.
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