The nurse is planning care for a patient with major depression who is receiving a new prescription for duloxetine.
Which information is most important for the nurse to obtain?
Weight change in the last month.
Recent use of other antidepressants.
Liver function lab results.
Family history of mental illness.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is C. Liver function lab results.
Choice A: Weight change in the last month
Weight change is a relevant factor to monitor in patients starting on antidepressants, including duloxetine, as some antidepressants can cause weight gain or loss. However, it is not the most critical information to obtain initially. Monitoring weight can help manage potential side effects and ensure the patient’s overall health, but it does not directly impact the immediate safety and efficacy of starting duloxetine.
Choice B: Recent use of other antidepressants
Recent use of other antidepressants is crucial information because combining duloxetine with other antidepressants, especially MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors), can lead to serious interactions such as serotonin syndrome. This condition can be life-threatening and requires careful management. However, while this information is important, it is not as immediately critical as liver function tests when starting duloxetine.
Choice C: Liver function lab results
Liver function lab results are the most important information for the nurse to obtain. Duloxetine is metabolized in the liver, and patients with pre-existing liver conditions or impaired liver function are at higher risk for hepatotoxicity. Monitoring liver function is essential to prevent severe liver damage, which can be life-threatening. Baseline liver function tests help ensure that the patient can safely metabolize the medication and identify any potential issues early.
Choice D: Family history of mental illness
Family history of mental illness can provide valuable context for understanding the patient’s condition and potential genetic predispositions. It can also help in tailoring the treatment plan and anticipating the patient’s response to medication. However, while this information is useful for long-term management, it is not as immediately critical as liver function tests when initiating duloxetine therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Ipratropium is a medication used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)1. When using an ipratropium inhaler for the first time or if it has not been used for a while, it is important to prime the inhaler by spraying it into the air away from your face1. However, the inhaler only needs to be primed with 2 sprays, not 71. If the client primes the inhaler with 7 pumps, it indicates that additional teaching is needed.

Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is:
a. Report any tendon pain or swelling to the healthcare provider immediately.
d. Limit exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning beds.
Choice A: Report any tendon pain or swelling to the healthcare provider immediately.
Ciprofloxacin, like other fluoroquinolones, can cause tendinitis and tendon rupture. This risk is higher in older adults, those on corticosteroid therapy, and those with kidney, heart, or lung transplants. Reporting any tendon pain or swelling immediately is crucial to prevent severe complications.
Choice B: Use NSAIDS to relieve mid joint aches and pains caused by the medication.
This is not recommended. Using NSAIDs with ciprofloxacin can increase the risk of central nervous system effects, including seizures. Therefore, it is not advised to use NSAIDs to relieve joint aches and pains caused by ciprofloxacin.
Choice C: Crush and mix the tablets with pudding if you have trouble swallowing the tablets.
Ciprofloxacin tablets should not be crushed. Crushing the tablets can affect the drug’s effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. If swallowing is an issue, the healthcare provider should be consulted for alternative forms of the medication.
Choice D: Limit exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning beds.
Ciprofloxacin can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, leading to severe sunburns. Patients are advised to limit their exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning beds while taking this medication.
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