Your patient has a diagnosis of major depressive disorder and has been started on sertraline (Zoloft) 50mg daily. After taking the medication for 3 days, the patient says, "I don't think the medicine is working. I don't want to take it any longer." What is your best response?
"I'll let your doctor know, and he may order a different medication."
"These medications usually take a few weeks to bring about an improvement in your symptoms."
"It is important to eat a more balanced diet to help this medication work."
"The important thing now is getting more involved in patient activities."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: While it's important to communicate with the doctor, this does not provide immediate reassurance or information about the medication's typical onset of action.
Choice B reason: This is the most accurate response as SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft) typically take several weeks to show full effects, and it's important for patients to understand this.
Choice C reason: While a balanced diet is important, it is not directly related to the effectiveness of sertraline in the short term.
Choice D reason: Encouraging involvement in activities is beneficial, but it does not address the patient's concern about the medication's effectiveness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Anger towards a deceased spouse can be a sign of unresolved grief and may indicate complicated grief or depression, requiring further intervention.
Choice B reason: Reestablishing relationships is a positive step in coping with loss and suggests progress in managing grief.
Choice C reason: Although it's difficult, the effort to engage with the community is a positive sign of coping and does not typically indicate a need for further intervention.
Choice D reason: A lack of desire to eat due to the absence of a loved one can be a normal part of grieving, but if persistent, it may require intervention to address potential depression.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A high potassium level can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. The normal range for potassium is typically 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L, so a level of 5.5 mEq/L should be reported.
Choice B reason: A potassium level of 3.8 mEq/L is within the normal range and would not typically increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.
Choice C reason: A potassium level of 4.5 mEq/L is within the normal range and would not typically increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.
Choice D reason: A low potassium level can also increase the risk of digoxin toxicity, but the question asks for the result that does not increase the risk, making 2.9 mEq/L incorrect in this context.
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