The nurse has reviewed the Vital Signs at 1000.

Which of the following statements should the nurse include when reinforcing teaching to the client following the procedure? Select all that apply.

• Frequent headaches: Phenelzine, an MAOI, can cause hypertensive crisis, with one of the earliest signs being persistent or worsening headaches. Frequent headaches must be treated as a possible warning of dangerously elevated blood pressure and require immediate provider notification.
• Elevated blood pressure (169/91 mm Hg): The significant rise in the client's blood pressure compared to baseline indicates new-onset hypertension. This is a serious adverse effect associated with MAOIs and signals the potential development of a hypertensive crisis, which must be urgently addressed.
• Difficulty sleeping: Difficulty sleeping or insomnia is a common side effect of phenelzine and other antidepressants. Although not life-threatening, insomnia can impair recovery if untreated and should be documented and discussed with the provider to adjust management if needed.
• Feeling much better: Improvement in mood and reduced fatigue are intended therapeutic outcomes of phenelzine treatment. These findings are positive signs and do not indicate an adverse reaction that needs intervention.
• Heart rate 78/min and respiratory rate 18/min: Both values are within normal ranges and do not suggest immediate concerns related to cardiovascular or respiratory function. They should continue to be monitored but do not require urgent action.

A. Dry skin: Dry skin is not typically associated with the disulfiram-alcohol reaction. The primary concerns involve cardiovascular and gastrointestinal symptoms rather than dermatologic effects.

B. Hypotension: Disulfiram causes an intense physical reaction when alcohol is consumed, including symptoms like flushing, nausea, vomiting, hypotension, and potentially life-threatening cardiovascular collapse. Monitoring for hypotension is critical during this reaction.

C. Constipation: Constipation is not a typical side effect of disulfiram-alcohol interaction. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting are much more common and more clinically significant.

D. Urinary retention: Urinary retention is not a known reaction to the combination of disulfiram and alcohol. The body’s response focuses more on vascular changes and gastrointestinal distress.