A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has depressive disorder and a new prescription for doxepin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Venlafaxine and frequent yawning/weight loss: Frequent yawning and weight loss are not typical signs of an adverse reaction to venlafaxine. These symptoms can occur with various conditions, but they do not necessarily require withholding the medication.
B. Olanzapine and frequent urination: Frequent urination is not a known side effect of olanzapine. However, the nurse should assess the client for other factors contributing to this symptom. It may not be severe enough to require withholding the medication without further evaluation.
C. Fluoxetine and muscle rigidity/tachycardia: Muscle rigidity and tachycardia could indicate serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. This requires immediate intervention, and the medication should be withheld while notifying the provider for further evaluation and treatment.
D. Nortriptyline and nausea/dry mouth: Nausea and dry mouth are common side effects of tricyclic antidepressants like nortriptyline. These symptoms typically do not require withholding the medication, but the nurse should monitor the client for any worsening or additional adverse effects.

Rationale for correct choices:

• Seizures: Seizures are a severe and life-threatening manifestation of alcohol withdrawal that require immediate intervention. They may lead to complications like injury or status epilepticus if not managed promptly.
• Increased blood pressure: Elevated blood pressure is a common sign of alcohol withdrawal and increases the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke. Close monitoring and intervention are necessary to prevent complications.
• Increased heart rate: Tachycardia is commonly seen in alcohol withdrawal, increasing the risk of arrhythmias and cardiovascular stress. Management of heart rate is essential for maintaining stability.
• Diaphoresis: Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, is part of the autonomic response during alcohol withdrawal and indicates significant distress in the body. It requires monitoring to ensure proper fluid and electrolyte balance.
• Vomiting: Vomiting in alcohol withdrawal can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can worsen the client’s condition. Immediate attention and interventions are needed to prevent further complications.
• Tremulousness: While often mild, tremors indicate CNS hyperexcitability and can escalate to more severe forms of withdrawal, including seizures or delirium tremens. It requires close monitoring and often pharmacological management to prevent progression.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Impaired cognition: Impaired cognition may occur due to alcohol intoxication or withdrawal but does not require immediate medical attention unless it is severe enough to affect the client’s ability to function or respond appropriately.
• Insomnia: Insomnia is common in alcohol withdrawal and can be distressing, but it is not life-threatening. It can be managed through appropriate therapeutic interventions but does not require urgent care.
• Lack of appetite: Loss of appetite is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal and may be associated with gastrointestinal symptoms. It should be monitored but does not require immediate follow-up unless it leads to severe malnutrition.
• Malaise: Malaise is a general symptom of alcohol withdrawal and indicates a general sense of discomfort. It is important to monitor but does not require immediate intervention unless accompanied by more severe symptoms.