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 ["4"]
Explanation
Step 1 is: Identify the dose ordered and the dose available. The dose ordered is 40 mg and the dose available is 10 mg/mL.
Step 2 is: Set up the equation to calculate the volume to administer: (40 mg ÷ 10 mg/mL) = 4 mL.
So, the nurse should administer 4 mL per dose.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
If there is a delay in receiving the new TPN solution from the pharmacy, the nurse should infuse Dextrose 10% in water until the next TPN solution is available. This is because stopping TPN abruptly can cause hypoglycemia. Dextrose 10% in water can provide a source of glucose to prevent hypoglycemia.
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