Amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, is prescribed for an adult client who is clinically depressed.
The client is admitted to the hospital due to suicidal ideation five days after starting the medication.
The client informs the practical nurse (PN) that the medication isn’t working as suicidal thoughts persist.
What information should the PN provide?
A review of the medication regimen is required due to the poor drug response.
A dosage increase may be needed, which requires in-hospital evaluation.
Therapy sessions may be needed to enhance the medication’s action on depression.
Antidepressant medication can take 2 to 4 weeks to become effective.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is D. Antidepressant medication can take 2 to 4 weeks to become effective. Choice A rationale While it’s important to review the medication regimen if a patient is not responding to treatment, it’s also crucial to understand that antidepressants like amitriptyline don’t typically show their full effects immediately. It’s common for these medications to take several weeks before their full therapeutic effect becomes apparent. Choice B rationale A dosage increase may be considered if the patient shows no improvement after a sufficient period, typically several weeks. However, since the patient has only been on the medication for five days, it’s too early to consider a dosage increase. Choice C rationale Therapy can indeed be beneficial in treating depression and can enhance the effect of medication. However, the statement that the medication isn’t working after five days is likely due to the fact that antidepressants usually take longer to start showing effects. Choice D rationale This is the correct answer. Antidepressants like amitriptyline often take 2 to 4 weeks to start showing their full effects. It’s important for patients to know this so they don’t get discouraged and stop taking the medication too soon.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is A. Protect skin from sun exposure.
Choice A rationale
Tetracycline is a type of antibiotic that can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Sun protection is important to prevent sunburn and other skin damage.
Choice B rationale
There is no specific interaction between tetracycline and grapefruit juice. However, it’s always a good idea to check with a healthcare provider about potential food-drug interactions.
Choice C rationale
The use of tampons during menses is not directly related to the use of tetracycline. It’s a personal choice based on comfort and convenience.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Given the client’s high blood pressure and complaint of a headache, it is important to continuously monitor the client’s cardiac status to detect any changes that may indicate worsening condition.
Choice B rationale
Placing an indwelling urinary catheter is not the immediate next step in this client’s care. While it may be necessary in some cases, it is not directly related to the client’s current symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Giving a fluid bolus is not the immediate next step in this client’s care. While it may be necessary in some cases, it is not directly related to the client’s current symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Drawing a basic metabolic panel (BMP) could be helpful in assessing the client’s overall health and kidney function, but it is not the immediate next step in this client’s care.
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