A nurse is collecting data from a client who is taking amitriptyline. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider as an adverse effect of the medication?
A systolic blood pressure decrease of 15 mm Hg after standing
Hypersalivation
Tinnitus
A weight loss of 3.6 kg (8 lb) over a 6-month time period
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: A decrease in systolic blood pressure of 15 mm Hg after standing could indicate orthostatic hypotension, which is a known adverse effect of amitriptyline. Orthostatic hypotension can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and falls, posing a significant risk to the patient's safety. Reporting this finding to the provider is crucial for assessing the need for dosage adjustments or alternative treatments.
Choice B reason: Hypersalivation is not a common adverse effect of amitriptyline. While dry mouth is a more typical side effect, hypersalivation would be unusual and might indicate an unrelated issue or an interaction with another medication.
Choice C reason: Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is not typically associated with amitriptyline use. While it can occur as a side effect of some medications, it is not commonly linked to this particular drug.
Choice D reason: A weight loss of 3.6 kg (8 lb) over a 6-month period is not generally considered an adverse effect of amitriptyline. Weight changes can occur with many medications, but significant weight loss should be evaluated in the context of the patient's overall health and other medications they may be taking.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect because individuals with bulimia nervosa can engage in other purging behaviors, such as the use of laxatives or excessive exercise, even if they do not vomit after eating. Therefore, the absence of vomiting does not rule out the diagnosis of bulimia nervosa.
Choice B reason: While individuals with bulimia nervosa may experience fluctuations in blood sugar levels due to their disordered eating behaviors, they are not specifically at a higher risk for developing diabetes mellitus compared to the general population. The primary health risks associated with bulimia nervosa are related to electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal issues, and cardiovascular complications.
Choice C reason: Bulimia nervosa can be difficult to detect because individuals with this disorder often maintain a weight that is within the average or ideal range. This can make it challenging for others to recognize the presence of an eating disorder, as the physical appearance may not immediately suggest a problem.
Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect because individuals with bulimia nervosa typically engage in binge eating episodes, during which they consume a large amount of food in a short period of time. These binge eating episodes are a key characteristic of the disorder and distinguish it from other eating disorders.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Going to their room alone when feeling overwhelmed may indicate that the client is trying to manage their emotions, but it does not directly address the effectiveness of the safety contract. The goal of the contract is to ensure that the client seeks help and communicates their feelings of self-harm to a healthcare provider.
Choice B reason: Displacing feelings of self-harm until talking to the provider is not a clear indication of the contract's effectiveness. The client may still be at risk of self-harm if they do not have immediate access to the provider. The safety contract aims to encourage the client to seek help and communicate their feelings promptly.
Choice C reason: Suppressing feelings when angry is not a healthy coping mechanism and does not indicate the effectiveness of the safety contract. The contract should promote open communication and seeking help rather than suppressing emotions, which can lead to further distress and potential self-harm.
Choice D reason: Notifying the nurse when they want to harm themselves is a clear indication that the safety contract has been effective. The client is following the agreed-upon plan to seek help and communicate their feelings of self-harm, which is the primary goal of the safety contract. This behavior demonstrates that the client is taking steps to ensure their safety and seeking support from healthcare providers.
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