The client presents to the emergency department with a headache in the back of the head, diaphoresis, and neck stiffness. The client's blood pressure measures 180/124 mm Hg and heart rate is 168 beats/min. The spouse says the client is currently prescribed "something for depression" and denies any history of cardiac disease. The nurse should suspect the use of what medication?

A monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)

A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)

A tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)

An atypical antipsychotic

None

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   MAOIs are a class of antidepressants that work by inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. MAOIs can interact with certain foods and other medications, potentially leading to a hypertensive crisis characterized by severe hypertension, headache, diaphoresis, and other symptoms.
B.   SSRIs are commonly prescribed antidepressants that work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin syndrome can present with symptoms such as headache, diaphoresis, tachycardia, and hyperthermia, but it typically doesn't cause severe hypertension.
C.   TCAs are another class of antidepressants that work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. TCAs can cause anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention. However, TCAs are less commonly associated with severe hypertension compared to MAOIs.
D.   Atypical antipsychotics are used to treat various psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. While they are not typically associated with causing severe hypertension directly, they can have cardiovascular side effects such as tachycardia and orthostatic hypotension.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Sudden change in the client's behavior increases the risk of suicidal behavior and hence requires observation and exploration.
B. Reward the client for her change in behavior: Positive reinforcement can be helpful, but it’s
essential to focus on evidence-based interventions rather than rewards.
C. Open communication is valuable, but it’s essential to approach this conversation with sensitivity. The client may not fully understand the reasons for their sudden change in behavior.

D. Sudden change in the client's behavior increases the risk of suicidal behavior and hence requires observation and exploration. It is therefore, not safe to discharge teh client at this point

Correct Answer is []

Explanation

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome refers to the collection of symptoms that occur when individuals who are dependent on alcohol abruptly reduce or stop their alcohol intake.

Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam or lorazepam, are commonly used to manage symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, and seizures.

Providing a safe environment also ensures that the client does not involve in self-harming activities due to hallucinations.

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is associated with an increased risk of seizures, particularly within the first 48 hours after cessation of alcohol consumption. Seizures can range from mild to severe and may be life-threatening if not promptly managed.

Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances due to increased urinary output, decreased fluid intake, and poor nutrition. Additionally, alcohol withdrawal itself can exacerbate fluid and electrolyte disturbances due to vomiting, diarrhea, diaphoresis, and increased metabolic demand.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Correct Answer is []

Explanation

The client with schizophrenia believes the student nurses are there to spy on the clients. The client is suffering from which of the following symptoms?

A nurse is exploring treatment options with a client addicted to heroin. Which information regarding the use of methadone is important for the nurse to include?

A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for disulfiram (Antabuse). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

A nurse is planning care for a client who is in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the client's plan of care?

Which are common reasons why abused persons remain with an abusive partner? Select all that apply.

An anxiolytic agent has been prescribed for the client. Which of the following statements by the client would indicate to the nurse that client education about this medication has been effective?

A home-health nurse is assessing a client who has obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and finds that the client demonstrates constant repetitive cleaning. The nurse knows that this behavior is an attempt to accomplish which of the following?

A nurse is caring for a client who has major depressive disorder and attempted suicide. The client tells the nurse. "I should have died because I am totally worthless." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?