The nurse is caring for a client being treated for depression. The nurse understands that a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) would be chosen as a first-line treatment option over a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) for which of the following reasons?
To help prevent sexual dysfunction
To avoid weight gain and other gastrointestinal (GI) effects
To prevent the risk of serotonin syndrome
To reduce the risk of suicide with overdose
The Correct Answer is D
A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) would be chosen as a first-line treatment option over a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) for several reasons, including reducing the risk of suicide with overdose ³. TCAs have a higher potential for serious or fatal toxicity when taken in large amounts compared to SSRIs ³.
Option A is incorrect because SSRIs can cause sexual dysfunction as a side effect.
Option B is incorrect because both SSRIs and TCAs can cause weight gain and gastrointestinal (GI) effects.
Option C is incorrect because SSRIs can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with other medications that affect serotonin levels.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Intravenous (IV) administration of medication involves injecting the medication directly into a vein. This route of administration has the most rapid onset of action because the medication is delivered directly into the bloodstream and can be quickly distributed throughout the body.
Options a, b, and c are not correct because they do not have as rapid an onset of action as intravenous administration. Sublingual administration involves placing the medication under the tongue, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes. Intradermal administration involves injecting the medication into the top layer of the skin. Subcutaneous administration involves injecting the medication into the fat tissue just under the skin. While these routes can be effective for delivering medication, they do not have as rapid an onset of action as intravenous administration.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
An accidental administration of a dose greater than recommended can result in toxicity. This means that the medication reaches harmful levels in the body and can cause damage to organs or other adverse effects.
Option A is incorrect because an overdose is more likely to increase side effects rather than decrease them.
Option B is incorrect because a lowered therapeutic threshold means that a lower dose of medication is needed to achieve the desired effect, which is not related to an overdose.
Option D is incorrect because an overdose can increase the effectiveness of the medication to dangerous levels, rather than decrease it.
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