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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Cleaning the inside of the container with a wipe is not recommended. The container provided for a urine sample is sterile, and cleaning it could introduce bacteria, contaminating the sample.
Choice B rationale
The statement “I will urinate a little then stop” is correct. This is part of the process of collecting a midstream urine sample. The initial stream of urine can contain bacteria from the urethra or genital area, so it’s recommended to start urinating, then stop and collect the sample midstream.
Choice C rationale
The statement “I will use each cleansing wipe twice” is incorrect. Each cleansing wipe should only be used once to avoid reintroducing bacteria.
Choice D rationale
The statement “I will use the cleansing wipe from front to back” is correct. This is the proper way to clean the genital area to avoid introducing bacteria from the anal area into the urethra.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Spending time with the patient is a therapeutic nursing approach when caring for a patient hospitalized for the treatment of severe depression. This approach shows the patient that they
are not alone and that their feelings are important. It can help build trust and rapport, which are essential for effective therapeutic communication and intervention.
Choice B rationale
Offering the patient choices of activities can be beneficial as it can provide a sense of control and improve mood. However, this approach should be used judiciously as the patient’s energy levels and interest in activities may be low due to depression.
Choice C rationale
Establishing a therapeutic relationship with the patient is an important aspect of care. However, this is a broad approach and involves more than just spending time with the patient. It includes building trust, maintaining confidentiality, and providing empathetic and nonjudgmental care.
Choice D rationale
Exploring the truth of the patient’s statements can be part of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a common treatment for depression. However, this is usually done by a trained therapist and not by a nurse providing general care.
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