A patient has been taking paroxetine (Paxil) 20 mg per day for 2 weeks and reports headaches, nervousness, and poor appetite.
Which action should the nurse take?

Reassure the patient that these side effects will decrease over time.

Tell the patient to stop taking the drug and contact the provider.

Counsel the patient to take the medication with food.

Suggest that the patient discuss a lower dose with the provider.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale

This choice is correct. The side effects of paroxetine, including headaches, nervousness, and poor appetite, are common during the initial weeks of treatment and often decrease over time as the patient’s body adjusts to the medication. Reassuring the patient helps them continue the treatment without undue anxiety about these side effects, which are typically transient and manageable.

Choice B rationale

This choice is incorrect. Abruptly stopping paroxetine without consulting a healthcare provider is not recommended because it can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a possible relapse of depression or anxiety. The patient should only discontinue the medication under the guidance of a healthcare provider, who may suggest a gradual tapering off process to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

Choice C rationale

This choice is partially correct. Taking paroxetine with food can help mitigate some gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea. However, it does not directly address headaches, nervousness, or poor appetite. Although taking the medication with food is a useful tip, it is not the most comprehensive advice for this particular situation.

Choice D rationale

This choice is incorrect. While adjusting the dose may be an option, it is premature to suggest this after only two weeks of treatment. The patient’s body may still be adjusting to the medication, and many side effects diminish with time. The decision to change the dosage should be made by the healthcare provider based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s response to the treatment.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Taking medication at the first sign of nausea may be too late to prevent motion sickness as it takes time for the medication to be absorbed and take effect.

Choice B rationale

Taking medication just prior to takeoff might not give the drug enough time to be absorbed and start working effectively.

Choice C rationale

Taking medication just prior to boarding the flight may not provide sufficient time for the drug to reach its peak effectiveness.

Choice D rationale

Taking the medication at 0700 before leaving for the airport allows enough time for the drug to be absorbed and reach its peak effect, which is essential for preventing motion sickness during the flight.

A. There is evidence of human fetal risk, but the potential benefits from the use of the drug may be acceptable despite potential risks. B. Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. C. Adequate studies in pregnant women have demonstrated that there is no risk to the fetus. D. Animal studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, but there have been no adequate studies in pregnant women.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Evidence of human fetal risk would categorize the drug as Category D or X, not Category B.

Choice B rationale

This statement aligns more with Category C drugs, where animal studies show adverse effects, but not Category B.

Choice C rationale

This describes Category A drugs, not Category B.

Choice D rationale

Category B drugs have shown no risk in animal studies but lack adequate human studies, fitting this description.

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A patient has been taking paroxetine (Paxil) 20 mg per day for 2 weeks and reports headaches, nervousness, and poor appetite.Which action should the nurse take?

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A patient has been taking paroxetine (Paxil) 20 mg per day for 2 weeks and reports headaches, nervousness, and poor appetite.
Which action should the nurse take?