A patient has been taking paroxetine (Paxil) 20 mg per day for 2 weeks and reports headaches, nervousness, and poor appetite.
Which action should the nurse take?
Reassure the patient that these side effects will decrease over time.
Tell the patient to stop taking the drug and contact the provider.
Counsel the patient to take the medication with food.
Suggest that the patient discuss a lower dose with the provider.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
This choice is correct. The side effects of paroxetine, including headaches, nervousness, and poor appetite, are common during the initial weeks of treatment and often decrease over time as the patient’s body adjusts to the medication. Reassuring the patient helps them continue the treatment without undue anxiety about these side effects, which are typically transient and manageable.
Choice B rationale
This choice is incorrect. Abruptly stopping paroxetine without consulting a healthcare provider is not recommended because it can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a possible relapse of depression or anxiety. The patient should only discontinue the medication under the guidance of a healthcare provider, who may suggest a gradual tapering off process to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Choice C rationale
This choice is partially correct. Taking paroxetine with food can help mitigate some gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea. However, it does not directly address headaches, nervousness, or poor appetite. Although taking the medication with food is a useful tip, it is not the most comprehensive advice for this particular situation.
Choice D rationale
This choice is incorrect. While adjusting the dose may be an option, it is premature to suggest this after only two weeks of treatment. The patient’s body may still be adjusting to the medication, and many side effects diminish with time. The decision to change the dosage should be made by the healthcare provider based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s response to the treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Discontinuing carbidopa-levodopa abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a worsening of Parkinson's symptoms. Insomnia is a possible side effect but should be managed under medical supervision.
Choice B rationale
Carbidopa-levodopa can cause orthostatic hypotension, leading to dizziness and an increased risk of falls. Patients should be advised to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent these effects.
Choice C rationale
Dark urine can be a harmless side effect of carbidopa-levodopa due to the excretion of metabolites. It is not usually a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms.
Choice D rationale
High-protein foods can interfere with the absorption of carbidopa-levodopa, reducing its effectiveness. It is recommended to take the medication on an empty stomach or with low-protein foods.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Serotonin does not compete with anticholinergic agents at muscarinic acetylcholine receptor sites; anticholinergics target these receptors to inhibit the parasympathetic nervous system.
Choice B rationale
Anticholinergics do not increase norepinephrine at the neuromuscular junction.
Choice C rationale
Nicotinic receptors are primarily affected by different classes of drugs, such as neuromuscular blockers.
Choice D rationale
Anticholinergics inhibit the actions of the parasympathetic nervous system by blocking muscarinic receptors, reducing bodily functions like saliva production, digestion, and urination.
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