A nurse is caring for a patient who has gastrointestinal bleeding. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

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.

Choice A rationale

Before administering digoxin, it is crucial to measure the patient’s apical pulse. Digoxin affects the heart rate, and a low pulse could indicate that the dose needs to be adjusted.

Choice B rationale

Offering a light snack is not specifically required before administering digoxin.

Choice C rationale

While it’s always important to monitor a patient’s blood pressure, it’s not specifically required before administering digoxin.

Choice D rationale

Weighing the patient is not specifically required before administering digoxin.