Greene is an 85-year-old male placed on a 5150 by the crisis team after his nurse called them. He has taken a fall in his driveway after his dialysis. He has end-stage kidney disease, diabetes, and a history of myocardial infarction 4 years ago. He was living alone until his home health nurse found him crying out in pain, clutching onto his leg in the kitchen. “I’m so tired,” he says.
Nortriptyline and some tricyclic antidepressants may be helpful with neuropathic pain but are often contraindicated in elderly clients such as Mr. Greene because (select the best answer)
Are outdated medications
Can increase cardiac side effects and urinary retention
Are only taken at night
Are expensive
Are expensive
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
While some may consider tricyclic antidepressants outdated, they are still used for certain conditions, including neuropathic pain. The primary concern with their use in elderly clients is not their age but their side effect profile.
Choice B reason:
Tricyclic antidepressants, including nortriptyline, can increase cardiac side effects and urinary retention, which are significant concerns in elderly clients. These medications can cause orthostatic hypotension, arrhythmias, and exacerbate urinary retention, making them less suitable for older adults with pre-existing health conditions.
Choice C reason:
The timing of medication administration (e.g., only taken at night) is not the primary issue with tricyclic antidepressants. The concern lies in their side effects, which can be particularly problematic for elderly clients.
Choice D reason:
While the cost of medication can be a factor in treatment decisions, it is not the primary reason tricyclic antidepressants are contraindicated in elderly clients. The main concern is their potential to cause serious side effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Reframing “all or nothing” thinking and that it is all “her fault” is an important cognitive behavioral approach. This technique helps Tiffany recognize and challenge irrational thoughts that contribute to her low self-esteem and anxiety. By learning to see situations in a more balanced way, she can reduce feelings of guilt and self-blame.
Choice B reason:
Having Tiffany identify self-soothing activities for decreasing anxiety is another effective cognitive behavioral approach. Self-soothing activities, such as deep breathing, listening to music, or engaging in hobbies, can help her manage anxiety and reduce the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors like handwashing.
Choice C reason:
Reframing self-criticism and giving positive feedback for insightful comments during group therapy can help Tiffany build self-esteem and develop a more positive self-image. Positive reinforcement encourages her to recognize her strengths and achievements, which can counteract negative self-perceptions.
Choice D reason:
Telling Tiffany she “has her entire life ahead of her and shouldn’t be worried about her former boyfriend” is not a cognitive behavioral approach. While it may be intended to provide reassurance, it does not address the underlying cognitive distortions or provide strategies for managing anxiety and low self-esteem.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Tea-colored urine and constipation are not characteristic symptoms of serotonin syndrome. These symptoms may indicate other medical conditions but are not related to the excessive accumulation of serotonin in the body.
Choice B reason:
A productive cough and vomiting are not typical symptoms of serotonin syndrome. While vomiting can occur in severe cases, a productive cough is unrelated to serotonin syndrome and more indicative of respiratory conditions.
Choice C reason:
Muscle rigidity and high fever are hallmark symptoms of serotonin syndrome. This condition results from an excess of serotonin in the central nervous system and can lead to severe autonomic instability, hyperthermia, and neuromuscular abnormalities. Immediate medical intervention is required to manage these symptoms and prevent complications.
Choice D reason:
Hypotension and urinary retention are not primary symptoms of serotonin syndrome. While autonomic dysfunction can occur, the key features of serotonin syndrome include neuromuscular hyperactivity, autonomic instability, and altered mental status.
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