An 11-year-old client has been hospitalized on the adolescent psychiatry unit with severe depression. For the past several weeks, the client has been prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). What is the priority nursing action?
Monitor food intake and eliminate potential sources of tyramine.
Assess for weight loss and difficulty sleeping.
Monitor the client for migraines.
Implement suicide precautions.
The Correct Answer is D
D. Children and adolescents with depression, especially when initiating or adjusting antidepressant medications like SSRIs, are at an increased risk of suicidal ideation and behavior. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the safety of the client by implementing suicide precautions, which may include close observation, removing potential means of self-harm, and involving the client in structured activities under supervision.
A. Monitoring food intake and eliminating potential sources of tyramine are considerations for clients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), another class of antidepressant medications, due to the risk of hypertensive crisis.
B. Weight loss and difficulty sleeping are potential side effects of SSRIs that may occur, particularly during the initial phases of treatment. However, suicide precautions are a priority
C. While SSRIs may cause headaches or migraines as potential side effects, monitoring for migraines specifically would not typically be a priority
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Fluoxetine and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) typically require several weeks of treatment before the full therapeutic effects are realized. Therefore, it's important for the nurse to reassure the client that it may take some time for the medication to alleviate depressive symptoms fully.
B. While lack of improvement in depressive symptoms after two weeks of fluoxetine treatment may be concerning, it's generally recommended to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks before considering changing or adjusting the antidepressant regimen.
C. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are another class of antidepressant medications that may be considered for treatment-resistant depression. However, MAOIs have significant dietary and medication restrictions and carry the risk of potentially serious drug interactions.
D. While sleep disturbances are common in major depressive disorder, recommending a sleep study as the first intervention for a client who is not responding to antidepressant treatment after only two weeks may not be the most appropriate action.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Acknowledging the client’s feelings while normalizing them can help reduce the sense of isolation and
provide validation. It’s essential to maintain empathy and avoid dismissing the client’s emotions.
A. While this response acknowledges the client’s feelings, it may come across as confrontational or probing. It’s essential to approach the conversation with empathy and avoid putting the client on the defensive.
B. This response reflects understanding and empathy. However, it does not directly address the client’s
statement about worthlessness.
D. It’s essential to avoid making assumptions about what the client values or finds meaningful. Focusing on empathy and understanding is more effective.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
