Nursing Elites

1. A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. Which dietary advice should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid foods high in tyramine.
• B. Maintain a consistent salt intake.
• C. Increase protein intake.
• D. Avoid foods high in fat.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Patients prescribed lithium should maintain a consistent salt intake. Fluctuations in salt intake can impact lithium levels, potentially leading to toxicity or reduced effectiveness of the medication. It is crucial for patients to adhere to a stable salt intake while taking lithium to ensure optimal treatment outcomes. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Avoiding foods high in tyramine is more relevant for patients on MAOIs, not lithium. Increasing protein intake or avoiding foods high in fat are not specific dietary recommendations for patients taking lithium.

2. Which of the following symptoms shouldn't one expect to assess in a client diagnosed with major depressive disorder?

• A. Loss of interest or pleasure
• B. Decreased ability to concentrate
• C. Significant weight loss or gain
• D. Increased energy

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Symptoms commonly associated with major depressive disorder include a loss of interest or pleasure, decreased ability to concentrate, significant weight loss or gain, and feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt. Increased energy is not a typical symptom of major depressive disorder; individuals with this condition often experience fatigue rather than increased energy.

3. During an assessment, a client is demonstrating symptoms of moderate anxiety. Which of the following symptoms would be indicative of moderate anxiety?

• A. Fidgeting
• B. Laughing inappropriately
• C. Palpitations
• D. Nail biting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Palpitations are a common physical symptom seen in clients experiencing moderate anxiety. Fidgeting, laughing inappropriately, and nail biting can also indicate heightened stress levels. It's important for healthcare providers to recognize these signs and provide appropriate support. While anxiety can manifest in various ways, other indicators of moderate anxiety may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance. It's crucial for healthcare providers to assess these symptoms to provide effective care and interventions. Laughing inappropriately and nail biting are more commonly associated with nervousness or social discomfort, while fidgeting may signal mild anxiety.

4. A client has been prescribed sertraline (Zoloft) and is receiving education from a healthcare provider. Which statement by the client indicates an accurate understanding of the medication?

• A. I should take this medication at the same time every day.
• B. It may take several weeks for this medication to be effective.
• C. I should take this medication on an empty stomach.
• D. I should avoid eating aged cheeses and processed meats.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Sertraline (Zoloft) may take several weeks to be effective, so it is important for the client to be informed about this timeframe. This medication does not need to be taken on an empty stomach, but it can be taken with or without food. Choice A is a good practice for many medications but not specifically related to sertraline (Zoloft). Choice D is not directly related to sertraline (Zoloft) but pertains to dietary restrictions when taking MAOIs due to potential interactions with tyramine.

5. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed venlafaxine. The nurse should educate the patient about which potential side effect?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Hypotension
• C. Bradycardia
• D. Hyperglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypertension. Venlafaxine, an SNRI, can lead to hypertension as a side effect. This medication can cause an increase in blood pressure, particularly at higher doses. Educating the patient about this potential adverse effect is crucial to enhance awareness and monitoring for any signs or symptoms of elevated blood pressure. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because venlafaxine is more likely to cause hypertension rather than hypotension, bradycardia, or hyperglycemia.

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