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
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A structured environment can include regular meal times, consistent routines, and clear expectations. While providing a structured environment is important in the overall management of eating disorders, it may not address the immediate concerns related to the client's severe weight loss and distorted body image.
B. Given the client's significant weight loss and distorted body image, assessing their nutritional status is crucial in understanding the extent of the problem and determining appropriateinterventions.
interventions. However, the client’s symptoms point to a mental health problem.
C. While planning a therapeutic diet is an essential component of the client's long-term treatment plan, it may not be the first priority given the client's current medical and psychological status.
D.Given the client's distorted body image, severe weight loss, and belief that she is fat, requesting a mental health consult is not the first priority. The physiological needs should be addressed first
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Consistent unit routines are essential for clients in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Maintaining a structured environment with predictable routines can help stabilize mood, reduce agitation, and provide a sense of security for the client.
A. Mania is characterized by heightened activity, impulsivity, and sometimes agitation. Providing a stimulating environment may exacerbate these symptoms and increase the risk of escalating behaviors or agitation.
B. While it may be necessary to provide a safe and quiet space for the client if they become agitated or overwhelmed, scheduling daily seclusion times implies isolation, which can worsen feelings of loneliness or distress.
D. Excessive daytime napping can disrupt the client's sleep-wake cycle and exacerbate symptoms of mania.
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