A patient receiving metoclopramide is also taking an antidepressant. What should the nurse monitor for?
Decreased appetite
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome
Elevated blood pressure
Enhanced antidepressant effects
The Correct Answer is B
A. Decreased appetite may occur but is not the most critical concern in this context.
B. The combination of metoclopramide, which can influence serotonin pathways, with certain antidepressants, especially SSRIs, increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.
C. While some antidepressants can influence blood pressure, monitoring for elevated blood pressure is not the primary concern with metoclopramide.
D. There is no evidence to suggest that metoclopramide enhances the effects of antidepressants; the focus should be on potential adverse interactions instead.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "There can be an unsafe reaction between your antidepressant and St. John's wort, which is why taking them both is discouraged." is correct; St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of SSRIs and may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, making it vital for the nurse to address this safety concern.
B. "Herbal remedies often contain unknown doses of the desired ingredient, which can be dangerous." is a valid point, but it does not specifically address the interaction with the client’s current medication.
C. "It's very important that you not take the St. John's wort at the same time of day as your antidepressant." is misleading; the concern is not just about timing but about taking both together at all.
D. "It's very important that you comply with your prescribed treatment." while true, this response does not directly address the specific risks associated with combining St. John's wort and citalopram.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A reduced plasma albumin level can lead to increased free drug levels in the bloodstream, raising the risk of drug toxicity, particularly for highly protein-bound medications.
B. Decreased therapeutic effects are less likely because the decrease in albumin can lead to higher free drug concentrations, which may actually increase effects rather than decrease them.
C. Altered drug absorption is generally not directly influenced by plasma albumin levels; it relates more to gastrointestinal factors.
D. Increased drug metabolism is not a direct consequence of lower albumin levels; instead, the concern is primarily about increased free drug concentrations and potential toxicity.