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 B
Explanation
Shortness of breath on exertion in a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonia indicates increased respiratory distress and compromised lung function. It suggests that the client is experiencing difficulty breathing even with minimal physical exertion. This finding may indicate worsening respiratory status, increased oxygen demand, and inadequate oxygenation. The nurse should take immediate action to address the shortness of breath, which may involve providing supplemental oxygen, initiating or adjusting bronchodilator medications, and monitoring the client's respiratory status closely. Prompt intervention is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent respiratory failure.
While the other assessment findings (bilateral diffuse wheezing, temperature of 100.5 °F, and yellow expectorated sputum) are also important and require attention, the shortness of breath on exertion poses the greatest immediate risk and necessitates immediate intervention to address the client's respiratory distress.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Allen's test is a procedure used to assess the patency of the ulnar artery and the collateral circulation of the hand. It is performed to determine the adequacy of collateral circulation before obtaining arterial blood gases from the radial artery. The test helps ensure that the ulnar artery is functioning properly and can supply blood to the hand if the radial artery is used for blood sampling or other invasive procedures.
The test involves occluding both the ulnar and radial arteries while the patient clenches their fist. The nurse then releases pressure on the ulnar artery while maintaining occlusion of the radial artery. The hand should quickly regain normal coloration, indicating adequate collateral circulation.
It's important to note that the Allen's test is specific to the assessment of collateral circulation in the hand and is not used for other purposes such as assessing deep vein thrombosis, cardiac output calculation, or obtaining pulmonary artery pressures.
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