A nurse is educating a patient who has been prescribed an antidepressant for depression. Which of the following is the most appropriate information for the nurse to provide?
Strong or aged cheese should not be eaten while taking them
Its full therapeutic potential may not be reached until 4-6 weeks
They should not be given with antianxiety agents
It may cause hypomania, weight gain, and an increase in sleep
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Avoiding strong or aged cheese applies to MAOIs due to tyramine interactions causing hypertensive crises. Most antidepressants, like SSRIs or SNRIs, do not require this dietary restriction, as they do not affect monoamine oxidase, making this information incorrect.
Choice B reason: Antidepressants, such as SSRIs, typically require 4-6 weeks to achieve full therapeutic effects by increasing neurotransmitter levels (serotonin, norepinephrine) in the brain. This delay is critical for patient expectations and adherence, making this the most appropriate information to provide.
Choice C reason: Antidepressants can be safely combined with antianxiety agents, such as benzodiazepines, under medical supervision for co-occurring anxiety and depression. This statement is incorrect, as combination therapy is common and does not require avoidance, depending on the clinical context.
Choice D reason: Hypomania, weight gain, and increased sleep are possible side effects of some antidepressants (e.g., mirtazapine), but they are not universal. SSRIs may cause insomnia or weight loss, making this information less broadly applicable than the therapeutic delay information.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: High-impact activities, such as running, increase cardiac demand and oxygen consumption, which can exacerbate heart failure symptoms due to reduced cardiac reserve. These activities are contraindicated, as they may lead to decompensation, worsening dyspnea, or fatigue in clients with heart failure.
Choice B reason: In heart failure, exercise improves cardiovascular fitness but must be moderated to avoid over PLEASE ASSIST WITH FORMATTING overexertion. Slowing down if dizzy or short of breath prevents decompensation by reducing cardiac strain, ensuring safety while promoting gradual physical activity.
Choice C reason: Unsupervised exercise is not universally contraindicated in heart failure, as tailored exercise programs can be safe with medical clearance. Requiring constant supervision is overly restrictive and may discourage beneficial physical activity, which is important for improving heart failure outcomes with proper guidance.
Choice D reason: Aiming for 30 minutes of daily exercise is a long-term goal for heart failure clients but may be unrealistic initially due to limited exercise tolerance. Gradual progression under medical supervision is needed, as immediate high-duration exercise could lead to overexertion and worsening symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: SSRIs increase serotonin levels in the brain, effectively managing GAD with a low risk of dependence. Side effects like nausea or headache are generally mild and transient, making SSRIs safer compared to other classes, as they do not cause significant physiological dependence or severe adverse effects.
Choice B reason: Tricyclic antidepressants affect multiple neurotransmitters, effectively treating GAD but with significant side effects like anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, constipation) and potential cardiotoxicity. They carry a higher risk of overdose and side effects compared to SSRIs, making them less safe for long-term use in GAD.
Choice C reason: Benzodiazepines enhance GABA activity, providing rapid anxiety relief but with a high risk of physiological dependence and withdrawal. Side effects like sedation and cognitive impairment, along with abuse potential, make them less safe than SSRIs for long-term GAD management.
Choice D reason: MAOIs inhibit monoamine oxidase, increasing neurotransmitter levels for GAD treatment. However, they have significant side effects, including hypertensive crises from dietary tyramine, and require strict dietary restrictions. Their risk profile and potential for severe interactions make them less safe than SSRIs.
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