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
None
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Providing frequent meals and snacks is generally beneficial, it’s essential to focus on nutritious options.
C. Manic episodes can lead to impulsive behavior, increased activity, and risk-taking. Close monitoring ensures early detection of any safety concerns, such as self-harm or aggression.
D. Manic clients are often hypersensitive to stimuli, and a calm, low-stimulation environment can help reduce agitation and prevent exacerbation of symptoms.
E. While adequate rest is essential, discouraging daytime naps may help regulate the client’s sleep patterns and prevent excessive energy levels associated with mania.
B. Regular weight monitoring is essential for assessing overall health, but it may not be a priority specifically related to mania.
Correct Answer is ["D","E"]
Explanation
A. In OCD, individuals typically experience intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) that cause anxiety or distress, rather than a specific fear of certain objects. While individuals with OCD may engage in compulsive behaviors related to their obsessions.
B. Rule-conscious behavior refers to a strict adherence to rules or regulations. While individuals with OCD may exhibit perfectionist tendencies and a need for orderliness, rule-conscious behavior is not a defining characteristic of OCD.
C. Individuals with OCD may experience difficulty relaxing due to the persistent nature of their obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions can trigger anxiety or distress, making it challenging for individuals with OCD to relax or engage in leisure activities without intrusive thoughts interfering. However, difficulty relaxing is not specific to OCD and can occur in other anxiety disorders as well.
D. Perfectionism is a common feature of OCD. Individuals with OCD often have unrealistic standards for themselves and may engage in compulsive behaviors to achieve a sense of perfection or symmetry. They may feel compelled to repeat tasks until they are "just right" or perform rituals to prevent perceived harm or catastrophe.
E. In OCD, individuals are typically aware of their compulsive behaviors, although they may feel driven to perform them to alleviate anxiety or prevent perceived harm. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that individuals feel driven to perform in response to obsessions or according to rigid rules.

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