A nurse is teaching a client who has a depressive disorder about amitriptyline. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
"This medication can cause an increase in appetite."
"You might experience hair loss while taking this medication."
"This medication can cause diarrhea."
"Urinary frequency is a common adverse effect of this medication."
None
None
The Correct Answer is A
A. "This medication can cause an increase in appetite." is correct. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that commonly causes increased appetite and weight gain as side effects. Clients should be informed of this possibility and encouraged to monitor their diet and weight while taking the medication.
B. "You might experience hair loss while taking this medication." is incorrect. Hair loss is not a common adverse effect of amitriptyline. This side effect is more commonly associated with other medications, such as chemotherapy agents or certain anticonvulsants.
C. "This medication can cause diarrhea." is incorrect. Amitriptyline typically causes constipation rather than diarrhea due to its anticholinergic effects, which slow gastrointestinal motility. Clients should be advised to increase fiber and fluid intake to help manage constipation.
D. While trouble urinating can occur due to anticholinergic effects, urinary frequency is not a commonly reported adverse effect of amitriptyline.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Leg tenderness: Leg tenderness can be a sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a rare but serious complication associated with oral contraceptives. Therefore, the nurse should report this finding immediately for further evaluation and management to prevent complications such as pulmonary embolism.
B. Cramps: Mild cramps are a common side effect of oral contraceptives and do not typically require immediate reporting unless they are severe or persistent.
C. Nausea: Nausea is a common side effect of oral contraceptives, especially during the initial weeks of use. It usually improves over time and does not typically require immediate reporting unless it is severe or persistent.
D. Abdominal bloating: Abdominal bloating is a common side effect of oral contraceptives and is usually mild and self-limiting. It does not typically require immediate reporting unless it is severe or persistent.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This statement indicates correct understanding. Remaining upright after taking ferrous gluconate reduces the risk of esophageal irritation or discomfort, which can occur if the medication refluxes into the esophagus. This is an important teaching point for clients taking iron supplements.
B. This statement is incorrect. Antacids can interfere with the absorption of ferrous gluconate by altering stomach acidity, which is necessary for optimal iron absorption. Clients should avoid taking antacids within two hours of iron supplements.
C. This statement is incorrect. Milk and other calcium-containing products inhibit the absorption of iron. It is recommended to take ferrous gluconate with water or a source of vitamin C, such as orange juice, to enhance absorption.
D. This statement is incorrect. Black stools are a common and harmless side effect of taking iron supplements and do not typically require notifying the provider unless accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain or blood in the stool.
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