A female client with anorexia nervosa and a cardiac condition was prescribed an antidepressant before she regained weight during her treatment course. The nurse should be aware of the possibility of which condition in this client?
Low serum sodium level
Low serum sodium level
Low serum potassium Ievel
High serum potassium level
The Correct Answer is C
C This is a common and potentially life-threatening complication in individuals with anorexia nervosa who are undergoing treatment. It can lead to cardiac arrhythmias.
A. Anorexia nervosa can lead to electrolyte imbalances, including hyponatremia (low serum sodium level), due to inadequate intake of sodium and fluid restriction. Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also contribute to hyponatremia by causing the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), which leads to water retention and dilutional hyponatremia. However, it is not as life-threatening as hypokalemia.
B. Anorexia nervosa can lead to electrolyte imbalances, including hyponatremia (low serum sodium level), due to inadequate intake of sodium and fluid restriction. However, it is not as life-threatening as hypokalemia.
D. Anorexia nervosa typically does not lead to hyperkalemia (high serum potassium level), as potassium is usually lost through purging behaviors or inadequate intake. Antidepressants also do not commonly cause hyperkalemia as a side effect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. This is the correct priority action. Serotonin syndrome can be life-threatening if not promptly recognized and treated. The physician needs to be notified immediately so that appropriate actions can be taken to manage the client's symptoms and potentially adjust the medication regimen.
A. Aspirin is not appropriate for treating serotonin syndrome. Monitoring the client's symptoms is important, but this action does not address the potential seriousness of the symptoms described.
C. Delaying notification could lead to worsening of symptoms and potential complications. Given the potential seriousness of serotonin syndrome, waiting until it's convenient is not appropriate.
D. While headache, palpitations, and stiffness could potentially be side effects of antidepressant medication, the combination of these symptoms raises concern for serotonin syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention rather than reassurance alone.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, increased energy, racing thoughts) alternating with episodes of depression (sadness, loss of interest, low energy). The mood swings can be severe, and the transition between mood states can occur suddenly.
A. Major depressive disorder is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest or pleasure in activities. It does not involve manic or hypomanic episodes, which are essential for diagnosing bipolar disorder.
B. Dysthymic disorder involves chronic, low-grade depression that lasts for at least two years. It does not typically present with episodes of mania or hypomania.
C. Personality disorders involve enduring patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience that deviate markedly from the expectations of the individual's culture. While some personality disorders can present with mood instability, the description of severe and sudden mood swings from mania to depression is not characteristic of personality disorders in general.
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