A severely depressed, sullen client has been taking fluoxetine for 10 days. During the first outpatient visit, the client smiles excitedly and states, "I feel so much better now." How should the nurse interpret this behavior change? The:
client may have decided to carry out the suicide plan.
medication has potentiated serotonin syndrome.
medication dosage should be decreased.
client's behavioral change is normal and expected.
The Correct Answer is D
D. This recognizes that the client's improvement in mood is a typical response to antidepressant medication and does not automatically suggest any negative outcomes such as suicidal ideation or serotonin syndrome.
A. It's important to be vigilant for signs of suicidal ideation but sudden improvements in mood can also occur as a positive response to antidepressant medication.
B. The client's description of feeling better does not align with the symptoms of serotonin syndrome, which include agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and hyperthermia.
C. Antidepressant medications often take several weeks to reach their full therapeutic effect, so it's not unusual for some clients to experience an improvement in mood within the first few weeks of treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. This behavior suggests the possibility of suicidal ideation, which is a medical emergency in mental health care. The nurse should assess the client for suicidal thoughts, intentions, and plans, and provide a safe environment to prevent self-harm. It's crucial to address this as a priority to ensure the safety and well- being of the client.
A. Withdrawing from social interactions can be a symptom of depression. However, it may not always be the highest priority intervention
B. This behavior suggests agitation and potential delusional thinking, which can be indicative of a severe depressive episode or a mixed state in bipolar disorder. This however, does not indicate the need for immediate intervention.
C. Non-adherence to prescribed medication, particularly mood stabilizers, can significantly impact the management of bipolar disorder and increase the risk of mood destabilization. However, addressing adherence is not the priority intervention.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Individuals with schizotypal personality disorder often exhibit aloof and isolative behaviors, coupled with a bland and apathetic manner. This condition is characterized by significant discomfort in social situations, leading to avoidance and a lack of close relationships.
A. Individuals with this disorder may exhibit odd or peculiar behaviors, but they typically do not display manipulative or exploitative tendencies seen in other personality disorders, such as narcissistic personality disorder.
B. individuals with schizotypal personality disorder may display odd or eccentric behaviors but they are less likely to exhibit consistent patterns of generosity or selflessness.
D. Individuals with this disorder may be hypersensitive to criticism or perceived slights from others, which can lead to feelings of social anxiety or discomfort. However, social withdrawal is not a typical finding.
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