Nursing Elites

1. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed sertraline. What is a common side effect the nurse should monitor for?

• A. Dry mouth
• B. Weight gain
• C. Insomnia
• D. Nausea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nausea is a common side effect associated with sertraline, a medication commonly used in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is essential for the nurse to monitor for nausea as it can impact the patient's adherence to the medication regimen. Educating the patient about this potential side effect and advising ways to manage it can enhance treatment compliance and overall therapeutic outcomes.

2. What is a common side effect of benzodiazepines prescribed for anxiety?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Insomnia
• C. Drowsiness
• D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Drowsiness. Benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed for anxiety, often cause drowsiness as a side effect due to their sedative properties. This can lead to impairments in cognitive and motor skills, making it important for individuals on these medications to exercise caution when performing tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because weight gain, insomnia, and increased appetite are not typically associated with benzodiazepines; instead, drowsiness and sedation are more commonly reported side effects.

3. What must be considered when preparing the teaching plan for a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder who is being prescribed lithium therapy?

• A. Caffeine and alcohol can affect lithium levels.
• B. Lithium should be taken with meals to avoid gastrointestinal distress.
• C. Regular blood tests are required to monitor lithium levels.
• D. Lithium can cause weight gain.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When preparing a teaching plan for a patient prescribed lithium therapy for bipolar disorder, it is crucial to emphasize the need for regular blood tests to monitor lithium levels. Monitoring levels is essential to ensure the drug's effectiveness and to manage potential side effects. While factors like caffeine and alcohol intake, taking lithium with meals, and the risk of weight gain may be relevant considerations, the primary focus should be on the necessity of regular blood tests for effective management of lithium therapy. Therefore, option C is the correct choice as it addresses a critical aspect of lithium therapy management.

4. Which intervention is most appropriate to promote the self-esteem of a patient with severe depression?

• A. Encouraging the patient to spend time alone for self-reflection.
• B. Involving the patient in simple, achievable activities to ensure success.
• C. Allowing the patient to rest and avoid responsibilities.
• D. Providing frequent reassurances and compliments.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Involving the patient in simple, achievable activities is a constructive approach to promote self-esteem by fostering a sense of accomplishment and success. This method encourages positive reinforcement and helps the patient regain confidence and self-worth, which are essential in managing depression. Choice A could potentially lead to rumination and worsen depressive symptoms. Choice C might reinforce avoidance behaviors and hinder progress. Choice D, while supportive, may not address the core need for building self-esteem through personal achievements.

5. A patient with major depressive disorder is started on fluoxetine. What is a common side effect the nurse should monitor for?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Increased appetite
• C. Nausea
• D. Dry mouth

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Nausea is a common side effect of fluoxetine and should be monitored.

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