A nurse is preparing to administer fluoxetine 30 mg PO daily to a client. The amount available is fluoxetine 10 mg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer per dose?

(Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero)

Step 1: Identify the prescribed dose.

• The prescribed dose is 30 mg.
• Result: 30 mg.

Step 2: Identify the strength of the available tablets.

• The available tablets are 10 mg each.
• Result: 10 mg/tablet.

Step 3: Calculate the number of tablets to administer.

• Number of tablets = (Prescribed dose in mg) ÷ (Strength of available tablets in mg/tablet).
• Number of tablets = 30 mg ÷ 10 mg/tablet.
• Number of tablets = 3 tablets.
• = 3 tablets.

So, the nurse should administer 3 tablets of fluoxetine per dose.

Choice A reason: Low-Grade Fever

Low-grade fever is a common early symptom of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is often associated with the body’s inflammatory response to the autoimmune activity occurring in the joints. While it can persist throughout the disease, it is not considered a late manifestation.

Choice B reason: Weight Loss

Weight loss can occur in RA due to chronic inflammation and its effects on metabolism and appetite. However, it is more commonly seen in the early to middle stages of the disease rather than as a late manifestation. Persistent inflammation can lead to muscle wasting and weight loss, but these are not specific to the advanced stages of RA.

Choice C reason: Anorexia

Anorexia, or loss of appetite, is another symptom that can be present in RA. It is often related to the chronic inflammation and pain associated with the disease, which can reduce a person’s desire to eat. Like weight loss, anorexia can occur at various stages of RA and is not specifically a late manifestation.

Choice D reason: Knuckle Deformity

Knuckle deformity is a late manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis. As RA progresses, the chronic inflammation can lead to joint damage and deformities, particularly in the hands and fingers. This includes changes such as ulnar deviation, swan neck deformities, and boutonnière deformities. These deformities result from the destruction of joint tissues and the formation of scar tissue, which can significantly impair hand function.