Which assessment finding would be considered normal in an elderly client?

This is because the patient may be experiencing serotonin toxicity, a potentially life- threatening condition caused by excessive levels of serotonin in the brain. Paroxetine (Paxil) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that increases serotonin levels, and some other medications or supplements may interact with it and cause serotonin toxicity. Some of the symptoms of serotonin toxicity include agitation, increased sweating, and hallucinations.

Choice B is wrong because administering an anti-anxiety medication may worsen serotonin toxicity, especially if the medication is also an SSRI or another serotonergic agent.

Choice C is wrong because placing the patient in loose bilateral arm restraints may increase the risk of injury or agitation, and does not address the underlying cause of the symptoms.

Choice D is wrong because telling the patient that the voices they are hearing are not real may not be helpful or reassuring, and may also increase the patient’s distress or confusion.

Take this medication at least 30 minutes before ingesting any food or medication.

This is because alendronate (Fosamax) is a bisphosphonate that works by inhibiting the breakdown and reabsorption of bone. However, it has a very low bioavailability, which means that only a small amount of the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream when taken orally. Therefore, taking it with food or other medications can interfere with its absorption and reduce its effectiveness.

The other choices are wrong because:

A. Chew the tablet well and report any difficulty swallowing. This is wrong because alendronate tablets should not be chewed or crushed, but swallowed whole with a full glass of plain water. Chewing or crushing the tablets can increase the risk of irritation or damage to the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach). Difficulty swallowing is a possible side effect of alendronate and should be reported to the doctor, but it is not an instruction for taking the medication.

B. Take the medication with six to eight ounces of milk. This is wrong because milk contains calcium, which can bind to alendronate and prevent its absorption. Alendronate should not be taken with any beverages other than plain water.

C. Lie down for 15 to 30 minutes after taking the medication. This is wrong because lying down after taking alendronate can increase the risk of esophageal irritation or

ulceration. Alendronate should be taken in the morning, at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything, and the person should remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after taking it.

Normal ranges for bone density are expressed as T-scores, which compare a person’s bone density to that of a healthy young adult of the same sex. A T-score of -1.0 or above is normal, a T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 indicates low bone density (osteopenia), and a T-score of -2.5 or below indicates osteoporosis.