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. While self-awareness is beneficial, the primary reason for monitoring personal feelings is to prevent bias and maintain objectivity, not only to enhance advocacy.
B. Sympathy may be natural, but unchecked positive feelings do not replace professional assessment or judgment.
C. Nurses who experience anger, frustration, or judgment toward the family or situation may misinterpret information, make biased decisions, or fail to provide appropriate support. Awareness of personal feelings helps maintain objective and effective care.
D. Strong positive feelings can still lead to boundary issues or inappropriate transference, which is not the intended goal of professional self-awareness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This focuses on problem-solving rather than acknowledging the patient’s feelings, which is not empathy.
B. This expresses the nurse’s feelings, not the patient’s, so it reflects sympathy rather than empathy.
C. This statement acknowledges the patient’s emotional experience and communicates understanding from the patient’s perspective, which demonstrates empathy.
D. This is judgmental and dismissive, showing neither empathy nor support.
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