A nurse is caring for a client who has major depressive disorder and is scheduled for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The client's spouse asks the nurse about the possible side effects of the ECT. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
"The most common side effects are directly related to the use of anesthesia."
The main side effects are temporary, and may include mild confusion, a headache, and short-term memory loss."
"Most clients have no adverse effects to this treatment, but muscle cramping may result from the induced seizure."
"Some clients have been known to have a myocardial infarction, but we will monitor your spouse closely to be certain this does not happen."
The Correct Answer is B
A. While anesthesia is used, the side effects from it are not the main concern with ECT.
B. The most common side effects are mild confusion, headache, and short-term memory loss, which are typically temporary.
C. Muscle relaxants are given before the procedure to prevent cramping or injury from the seizure.
D. Myocardial infarction is not a common side effect; this response could unnecessarily alarm the spouse.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Prickly skin sensations may occur with anxiety or substance use, not psychomotor agitation.
B. Slowed verbal responses indicate psychomotor retardation, not agitation.
C. Psychomotor agitation refers to increased, purposeless movement such as pacing, hand-wringing, or fidgeting.
D. Asking to repeat instructions indicates poor concentration, not specifically psychomotor agitation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic with a lower risk of weight gain, metabolic syndrome, and hypertension compared with olanzapine or clozapine, making it suitable for a patient who is overweight and hypertensive. It effectively treats positive symptoms such as auditory hallucinations and may improve social functioning.
B. Olanzapine is effective for schizophrenia but is associated with significant weight gain, hyperlipidemia, and worsening hypertension, making it less appropriate for this patient.
C. Clozapine is reserved for treatment-resistant schizophrenia due to risks of agranulocytosis, myocarditis, and metabolic side effects; it is not first-line for this patient.
D. Ziprasidone has a lower risk of metabolic side effects than olanzapine or clozapine, but it carries a risk of QT prolongation, which may be concerning in hypertensive patients with potential cardiac risks.
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