The nurse is caring for a client being treated for depression. The nurse understands that a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) would be chosen as a first-line treatment option over a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) for which of the following reasons?
To help prevent sexual dysfunction
To avoid weight gain and other gastrointestinal (GI) effects
To prevent the risk of serotonin syndrome
To reduce the risk of suicide with overdose
The Correct Answer is D
A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) would be chosen as a first-line treatment option over a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) for several reasons, including reducing the risk of suicide with overdose ³. TCAs have a higher potential for serious or fatal toxicity when taken in large amounts compared to SSRIs ³.
Option A is incorrect because SSRIs can cause sexual dysfunction as a side effect.
Option B is incorrect because both SSRIs and TCAs can cause weight gain and gastrointestinal (GI) effects.
Option C is incorrect because SSRIs can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with other medications that affect serotonin levels.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) would be chosen as a first-line treatment option over a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) for several reasons, including reducing the risk of suicide with overdose ³. TCAs have a higher potential for serious or fatal toxicity when taken in large amounts compared to SSRIs ³.
Option A is incorrect because SSRIs can cause sexual dysfunction as a side effect.
Option B is incorrect because both SSRIs and TCAs can cause weight gain and gastrointestinal (GI) effects.
Option C is incorrect because SSRIs can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with other medications that affect serotonin levels.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Carbidopa/levodopa is a medication used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. If the medication is effective, the client should show improvement in their ability to move and perform daily activities. In this case, the client being able to walk upright without stumbling indicates that the medication is effective.
Option B is incorrect because eating 30% to 40% of meals within 1 hour is not related to the effectiveness of carbidopa/levodopa.
Option C is incorrect because displaying emotions when discussing the illness is not related to the effectiveness of carbidopa/levodopa.
Option D is incorrect because cogwheel motion when swinging the arms is a symptom of Parkinson's disease and would indicate that the medication is not effective.
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