A patient with a history of bipolar I disorder is prescribed fluoxetine (Prozac) for a depressive episode. What is the nurse's priority action?
Assess the patient for gastrointestinal side effects.
Monitor the patient closely for signs of mania.
Administer the medication as ordered
Educate the patient about potential weight gain
The Correct Answer is B
A. While gastrointestinal side effects are common with fluoxetine, they are not the priority concern in the context of bipolar disorder.
B. Fluoxetine (Prozac) is an SSRI used to treat depression, but in patients with bipolar disorder, it can trigger a manic episode. Therefore, the nurse's priority is to monitor for signs of mania, such as increased energy, euphoria, or impulsivity.
C. Administering the medication as ordered is essential, but the nurse must be vigilant for signs of mania, especially with SSRIs in bipolar patients.
D. Educating about weight gain is important but does not address the immediate risk of precipitating mania with fluoxetine in a bipolar patient.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Sleeping for long periods of time would typically indicate depression, not mania.
B. Dressing in black or grey clothing is not typically associated with mania; this could be a symptom of depression, which tends to cause social withdrawal and lack of energy.
C. Rapid, continuous speech (pressured speech) is a common symptom of mania, where the individual is unable to control the flow of conversation.
D. Spending large sums of money without regard for the consequences is a typical behavior during manic episodes, often linked to impulsivity and poor judgment.
E. Flirtatious behavior can indicate impulsivity, another characteristic of mania, where the person may act inappropriately or without regard for social boundaries.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Ineffective coping is important but secondary to addressing the immediate safety of the client.
B. While impaired parenting is a concern, the safety of the mother takes precedence over her ability to care for her child.
C. Anxiety is a symptom but does not pose as immediate a threat to the client’s well-being as the risk of self-harm.
D. Feelings of hopelessness in a mother diagnosed with postpartum depression can indicate a risk for self-harm or suicide. The priority is to ensure the client's safety, as these feelings are a critical sign of potential harm to themselves.
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