A nurse is assessing a patient who has been taking sertraline for 2 weeks.
Which finding should the nurse identify as an indication that the medication is effective?
The patient’s legs are not swollen.
The patient reports an improvement in mood.
The patient’s blood pressure is within the expected range.
The patient reports a recent weight loss.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While swelling in the legs can be a side effect of some medications, it is not a measure of the effectiveness of sertraline. Sertraline is an antidepressant, and its effectiveness would be measured by improvements in mood and behavior.
Choice B rationale
An improvement in mood is a key indicator that the sertraline is effective. Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression and other mood disorders. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance.
Choice C rationale
While it’s important to monitor blood pressure in patients taking any medication, a blood pressure within the expected range is not specifically an indication of the effectiveness of sertraline.
Choice D rationale
Weight loss is not a primary indicator of the effectiveness of sertraline. While some patients may experience weight changes while taking this medication, it is not a measure of its effectiveness in treating depression or other mood disorders.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
In ARDS, impaired carbon dioxide elimination due to shunting can occur. Shunting refers to the diversion of blood from areas of the lung that are ventilated to areas that are not, leading to impaired gas exchange.
Choice B rationale
Decreased pulmonary arterial pressure due to ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) mismatch is not a typical finding in ARDS3.
Choice C rationale
Hypoxemia due to dead space is not a typical finding in ARDS. Dead space refers to areas of the lung that are ventilated but not perfused.
Choice D rationale
Decreased pulmonary compliance due to stiffness is a typical finding in ARDS. The lungs become stiff and less compliant due to the accumulation of fluid and inflammatory cells in the alveoli and interstitial space.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Lifting a patient under the shoulders by two nurses can be strenuous and may not provide adequate support for a patient who can only partially assist.
Choice B rationale
While this method may work for some patients, it relies heavily on the patient’s strength and ability to push with their feet. If the patient is weak or unable to exert enough force, this method could be unsafe.
Choice C rationale
Using a device to reduce friction is the most appropriate technique when shifting a patient who can only partially assist. Devices such as slide sheets or transfer boards can help move the patient smoothly and with less physical strain on the healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale
Lifting the patient’s legs while the patient uses a trapeze bar requires significant upper body strength from the patient and may not be feasible for all patients.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.