An adult outpatient diagnosed with major depressive disorder has a history of several suicide attempts by overdose. Given this patient's history and diagnosis, which antidepressant medication would the nurse expect to be prescribed to this patient?
Tranylcypromine sulfate (Parnate)
Amitriptyline (Elavil)
Desipramine (Norpramin)
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
The Correct Answer is D
A. Tranylcypromine sulfate (Parnate) is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that carries a high risk of toxicity in overdose and is generally avoided in patients with a history of suicide attempts.
B. Amitriptyline (Elavil) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), which can be lethal in overdose, making it unsafe for patients at high risk for suicide.
C. Desipramine (Norpramin) is also a TCA and poses a similar overdose risk as amitriptyline, so it is not preferred for suicidal patients.
D. Fluoxetine (Prozac) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which has a much lower lethality in overdose compared to TCAs or MAOIs, making it the preferred choice for patients with a history of suicidal behavior.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Anger is a common emotion in psychiatric patients but is less predictive of suicide risk.
B. Elation may occur in some mood disorders but is not strongly associated with imminent suicide risk.
C. Hopelessness is the feeling most strongly correlated with suicidal ideation and attempts, making it a key predictor for elevated suicide risk.
D. Sadness is a symptom of depression but alone does not reliably predict suicide risk without accompanying hopelessness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Regression is reverting to earlier developmental behaviors (e.g., thumb-sucking under stress). The patient is not showing childlike behaviors.
B. Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings to others. The patient is not blaming others for symptoms.
C. Denial is refusing to acknowledge a painful reality. Despite clear symptoms and diagnostic testing, the patient minimizes illness by attributing it to "just a stubborn chest cold."
D. Displacement is redirecting emotions onto a safer target (e.g., yelling at spouse instead of boss). Not evident here.
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