A client has been prescribed Phenelzine for depression. Which of the following indicates that the client has developed an adverse effect of this medication?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Orthostatic hypotension is a known adverse effect of Phenelzine, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used for depression. It is caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions, leading to symptoms like dizziness or fainting. Monitoring for orthostatic hypotension is crucial during Phenelzine therapy to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The priority adverse effect to report when a child is taking Desipramine is suicidal thoughts. Desipramine can lead to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The nurse should emphasize to the parents the importance of monitoring the child for any signs of worsening depression or suicidal ideation. Prompt reporting of such symptoms can help prevent harm to the child.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Dry mouth. Clonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist commonly used off-label to assist in managing withdrawal symptoms during opioid detoxification. Dry mouth is a common adverse effect of Clonidine due to its central nervous system effects on reducing sympathetic outflow. Option A) Diarrhea is less likely with Clonidine use and is not a common adverse effect associated with this medication. Option C) Insomnia is also less common with Clonidine use, as it is actually used for its sedative effects in some cases. Option D) Hypertension is a potential adverse effect of Clonidine; however, in this context of using Clonidine to maintain abstinence from opioids, the more immediate and common side effect to monitor for is dry mouth. Educationally, understanding the common adverse effects of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to their patients. By knowing the expected side effects, nurses can monitor patients appropriately, educate them on what to expect, and intervene if necessary to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include is to advise the client to take Levodopa/Carbidopa with food. This recommendation helps reduce gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with this medication. Food can help minimize nausea and other stomach-related issues that may occur when taking Levodopa/Carbidopa.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of a client receiving IV Dopamine for shock treatment, increased urine output (Option C) is the most indicative finding that the medication is effective. Dopamine is a vasopressor medication that works by increasing cardiac output and improving renal perfusion. The increase in urine output signifies improved renal blood flow and function, reflecting the medication's desired hemodynamic effect. Decreased blood pressure (Option B) would be an expected initial response to IV Dopamine due to its vasopressor effects, but solely relying on this parameter may not indicate the medication's overall effectiveness in treating shock. Increased heart rate (Option A) may occur as a compensatory mechanism in response to shock but is not a direct indicator of Dopamine's effectiveness. Decreased respiratory rate (Option D) is not directly related to the therapeutic action of Dopamine in treating shock. Monitoring respiratory rate is crucial for assessing respiratory function but is not a primary indicator of Dopamine's effectiveness in this context. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind monitoring urine output in clients receiving vasopressor therapy like Dopamine is essential in pharmacology. It reinforces the link between medication actions, physiological responses, and clinical monitoring, enhancing patient care and safety.