An adult who has recurrent episodes of depression tells the nurse that the prescribed antidepressant needs to be discontinued because the client is feeling better after taking the medication for the past couple of weeks and does not like the side effects. Which response is best for the nurse to provide?
Tell the client to discuss the medication side effects with the healthcare provider.
Tell the client that the medication's side effects will most likely dissipate over time.
Inform the client that gradual tapering must be used to discontinue the medication.
Remind the client that feeling better is the therapeutic effect of the medication.
None
None
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale: While the healthcare provider manages prescriptions, the nurse's immediate priority is providing education to prevent non-compliance and relapse. Referring the client elsewhere may delay critical reinforcement of treatment goals.
Choice B rationale: Although many side effects eventually diminish, telling the client they will "most likely dissipate" offers no immediate solution to their dissatisfaction and may diminish the client's current physical discomfort.
Choice C rationale: While true that antidepressants require tapering to avoid withdrawal, this does not address the client's misconception that the medication is no longer needed because they feel improved.
Choice D rationale: Patients often mistake the therapeutic effect for a permanent "cure." Explaining that they feel better specifically because the medication is working helps them understand the necessity of continued maintenance therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: White blood cell count monitors for infection or inflammation. While important for general health, it does not address the massive fluid loss and electrolyte imbalances specifically caused by diabetes insipidus.
Choice B rationale: Capillary glucose monitors for diabetes mellitus. Diabetes insipidus involves antidiuretic hormone deficiency, not insulin issues; therefore, glucose levels are not the priority in managing the massive dilute polyuria seen here.
Choice C rationale: Urine specific gravity will be consistently low in diabetes insipidus. While it confirms the diagnosis of dilute urine, it is less critical than monitoring the life-threatening systemic effects of dehydration.
Choice D rationale: Serum sodium is the most important lab to monitor. Massive loss of dilute urine leads to severe hemoconcentration and hypernatremia, which can cause cerebral edema, seizures, and permanent neurological damage.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Following a pneumonectomy, it is important for the client to gradually resume normal activities and engage in social interactions. Encouraging family gatherings can provide emotional support, facilitate social connections, and help reduce feelings of isolation that the client may be experiencing.
While it is generally important for clients who have undergone a pneumonectomy to take precautions to reduce the risk of respiratory infections, such as avoiding crowded places and individuals with respiratory infections, completely avoiding social contact for several weeks is not necessary or realistic in most cases. It is essential to find a balance between protecting the client's health and promoting their emotional well-being and social integration.
Wearing a face mask during family events may not be necessary unless there is a specific concern about respiratory infections. The nurse can educate the client about the importance of good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with individuals who are actively ill with respiratory infections.
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