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
Continuous rubbing of the back of the neck can be a side effect of antipsychotic medication, known as acute dystonia. Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication that can effectively treat acute dystonia. Therefore, the nurse should give a PRN prescription for benztropine to relieve the client's discomfort. Options a, b, and d do not address the underlying issue of acute dystonia and are not the best interventions for this particular situation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Orlistat works by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fat in the intestines. The side effects of faty stools and flatus can be managed by reducing the intake of dietary fat. The nurse should ask the client to describe her dietary intake history for the last several days to determine if she has been consuming a diet high in fat.
Based on this information, the nurse can provide appropriate dietary advice to help manage these side effects.
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