A nurse cares for four patients who are receiving clozapine, lithium, fluoxetine, and venlafaxine, respectively. For which patient should the nurse be most alert for alterations in cardiac or cerebral electrical conductivity as well as fluid and electrolyte imbalance? The patient receiving:
fluoxetine (Prozac)
Lithium (Lithobid)
venlafaxine (Effexor)
clozapine (Clozari)
The Correct Answer is B
A. fluoxetine (Prozac):
Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. While SSRIs can have side effects, significant alterations in cardiac or cerebral electrical conductivity and fluid/electrolyte imbalance are not typically associated with fluoxetine. The primary concerns with SSRIs are related to serotonin levels and can include gastrointestinal disturbances, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction.
B. Lithium (Lithobid):
This is the correct answer. Lithium is known to have potential side effects related to cardiac and cerebral function, as well as fluid and electrolyte balance. Monitoring blood levels of lithium is crucial to avoid toxicity, which can affect the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. Lithium toxicity can lead to symptoms such as tremors, confusion, ataxia, and, in severe cases, seizures.
C. venlafaxine (Effexor):
Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. While it can cause some cardiovascular effects, the concern for significant alterations in cardiac or cerebral electrical conductivity and fluid/electrolyte imbalance is generally lower compared to lithium. The primary side effects of venlafaxine are related to serotonin and norepinephrine levels and may include increased blood pressure and heart rate.
D. clozapine (Clozaril):
Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia. While antipsychotics can have side effects related to metabolic changes, significant alterations in cardiac or electrolyte imbalances are not typically associated with clozapine as the primary concern. Regular monitoring for metabolic side effects, such as weight gain and changes in lipid and glucose levels, is important with antipsychotic medications.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Tactile hallucinations: Benztropine is not typically indicated for the treatment of tactile hallucinations. It is primarily used to manage extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) associated with antipsychotic medications.
B. Reports of hearing disturbing voices: Benztropine is not the first-line treatment for auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia. Antipsychotic medications, such as haloperidol, are more commonly used for this purpose.
C. Hypotension: Benztropine is not used to treat hypotension. It is used to manage extrapyramidal symptoms, such as rigidity and restlessness, that may result from antipsychotic medication use.
D. Restlessness and muticle rigidity: This is the correct answer. Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication that can help alleviate extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) caused by antipsychotic drugs like haloperidol. Restlessness and muticle rigidity are symptoms of EPS, and benztropine can be used to counteract these side effects.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists focus primarily on medical and pharmacological interventions for mental illnesses. While they play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, they typically do not have the expertise in housing assistance or social services.
B. Behavioral therapist: Behavioral therapists focus on psychotherapeutic interventions to address and modify behavior. They are not typically involved in addressing social determinants of health, such as housing.
C. Social worker: Social workers are specifically trained to address social issues, including housing. They work with clients to assess their social needs, connect them with resources, and advocate for their well-being. In this case, a social worker would be instrumental in helping the client find housing resources and support.
D. Psychologist: Psychologists primarily focus on psychological assessments, therapy, and interventions. Like psychiatrists, their expertise is more centered around mental health treatment rather than addressing the social determinants of health such as housing.
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