A nurse is teaching a client who is being treated for depression with escitalopram. Which of the following statements by the client should the nurse identify as an adverse effect?
"I feel like my heart is skipping beats."
"I have noticed that I have decreased sexual interest."
"I have recently lost 7 pounds."
"I feel less anxious when I am around my friend."
The Correct Answer is B
A. "I feel like my heart is skipping beats.": Palpitations can occur with some medications, but they are less common with escitalopram. This may warrant further assessment but is not a typical adverse effect of the drug.
B. "I have noticed that I have decreased sexual interest.": Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, and anorgasmia, is a well-known adverse effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like escitalopram.
C. "I have recently lost 7 pounds.": Weight changes can occur with antidepressants, but mild weight loss is not typically considered a primary adverse effect of escitalopram and may reflect other factors.
D. "I feel less anxious when I am around my friend.": This statement reflects the therapeutic effect of escitalopram in reducing anxiety and improving mood, rather than an adverse effect.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Inform the nursing manager: While notifying the manager is important for accountability and support, it does not address the immediate safety needs of the client.
B. Monitor the client's condition: The first action after a medication error is to assess and monitor the client for any adverse effects. Ensuring the client’s safety and identifying early signs of complications takes priority over reporting.
C. Notify the client's provider: The provider should be informed promptly, but only after assessing the client and determining their current condition and any immediate interventions needed.
D. Complete an occurrence report: Documenting the error is essential for legal and quality improvement purposes, but it is not the first priority. The client’s safety must be addressed before reporting the incident.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "The pump will not deliver any medication during the lockout period.": The lockout interval is a safety feature that prevents overdose by ensuring the pump cannot deliver additional doses until a set time has passed. Understanding this helps the client use the PCA safely.
B. "I should wait to push the pain button until the pain becomes severe.": PCA is most effective when the client administers medication at the onset of pain rather than waiting for it to become severe, as early administration prevents pain from escalating.
C. "My partner can push the pain button for me if I fall asleep.": Only the client should operate the PCA pump to prevent accidental overdose. Allowing someone else to push the button violates safety protocols.
D. "I will be asked to describe and rate my pain every 8 hours.": Pain assessment should be frequent, especially in the first 24 hours of PCA use, to adjust therapy and monitor effectiveness. An 8-hour interval may not provide timely information to manage pain effectively.
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