a patient with a diagnosis of panic disorder is prescribed an ssri which side effect should the nurse monitor for when the patient starts this medicat
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ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. A patient with a diagnosis of panic disorder is prescribed an SSRI. Which side effect should the nurse monitor for when the patient starts this medication?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient with panic disorder is prescribed an SSRI, the nurse should monitor for gastrointestinal disturbances as a common side effect. SSRIs can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort, especially at the beginning of treatment. Increased heart rate (Choice A) is not a common side effect of SSRIs; it is more commonly associated with medications like stimulants. Increased appetite (Choice B) is not a typical side effect of SSRIs, as they are more likely to cause weight loss or appetite suppression. Dry mouth (Choice D) is a side effect seen more commonly with medications that have anticholinergic properties, not typically with SSRIs.

2. What is an important aspect of patient education regarding buspirone when prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. When educating a patient about buspirone for generalized anxiety disorder, it is crucial to highlight that buspirone may take 2-4 weeks to become effective. Patients need to be aware of this delayed onset of action to manage their expectations and continue the medication as prescribed. This information helps patients understand that they may not experience immediate relief and should not discontinue the medication prematurely. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because buspirone is typically taken regularly, not as-needed, it has a lower risk of addiction compared to other anxiety medications, and it does not need to be taken with food for increased absorption.

3. A patient with anorexia nervosa is being treated in an inpatient facility. Which intervention should be included in the care plan?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Monitoring the patient's weight weekly is crucial in the care of individuals with anorexia nervosa as it allows healthcare providers to track changes in weight, which is a key indicator of nutritional status. Regular weight monitoring helps in identifying any significant weight loss or gain, enabling prompt intervention and adjustment of the treatment plan to address the patient's nutritional needs effectively.

4. When developing a care plan for a patient with borderline personality disorder, which intervention should be included to address self-harm behaviors?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Developing a safety plan with the patient is crucial when addressing self-harm behaviors in individuals with borderline personality disorder. This intervention helps outline steps to take during a crisis, identifies triggers, and provides strategies to prevent self-harm incidents. It involves collaboratively creating a plan between the patient and the healthcare team to ensure a structured and supportive approach to managing potentially dangerous situations.

5. During a mental health assessment, a patient states, 'I just don't see the point in anything anymore.' This statement is an indication of which of the following?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The patient's statement 'I just don't see the point in anything anymore' reflects feelings of hopelessness and a lack of purpose, which are common symptoms of depression. Depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. While anxiety disorders can involve excessive worry and fear, bipolar disorder includes episodes of both depression and mania, and schizophrenia typically involves symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. Therefore, depression is the most appropriate choice based on the patient's statement.

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