A client is being taught about a new prescription for Escitalopram to treat generalized anxiety disorder. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. When discontinuing Escitalopram, the client should taper the medication slowly according to a prescribed dosing schedule to reduce the risk of withdrawal syndrome. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms, so it is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions for gradual discontinuation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the highest priority finding to report to the provider when a male client is taking Haloperidol is neck spasms (Option B). This is because neck spasms can indicate a serious side effect known as acute dystonia, which is a severe extrapyramidal symptom caused by Haloperidol. Acute dystonia can lead to airway obstruction and is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention to prevent complications. Therefore, reporting neck spasms promptly is crucial for the client's safety. Regarding the other options: A) Shuffling gait: While this can be a side effect of Haloperidol (parkinsonism), it is not as urgent or potentially life-threatening as acute dystonia. C) Drowsiness: Drowsiness is a common side effect of many antipsychotic medications, including Haloperidol, and may not require immediate intervention unless severe. D) Impotence: While impotence is a possible side effect of Haloperidol, it is not a critical issue that requires immediate reporting compared to the risk of acute dystonia. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing and prioritizing potential side effects of medications, especially those with serious implications like acute dystonia. It emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to have a thorough understanding of pharmacology, drug side effects, and the significance of timely reporting concerning adverse reactions to ensure patient safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Liver damage is an adverse effect of Atomoxetine. The nurse should monitor for manifestations such as jaundice, upper abdominal tenderness, darkening of urine, and elevated liver enzymes. It is crucial to be vigilant for signs of liver damage to ensure early detection and intervention to prevent further complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the priority action for the nurse is to obtain baseline vital signs. This is crucial for establishing a baseline assessment, especially for a patient undergoing opioid withdrawal and starting a new medication like Clonidine. Monitoring vital signs is essential for evaluating the patient's response to treatment and detecting any potential complications early on.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option D) Yellow-tinged vision. Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart failure, but it can have serious adverse effects if not monitored closely. Yellow-tinged vision is a classic sign of digoxin toxicity and should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately. This visual disturbance can indicate that the digoxin levels in the body are too high, potentially leading to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Option A) Dry cough is not typically associated with digoxin use. Dry cough is more commonly seen with medications like ACE inhibitors used to treat conditions like hypertension. Option B) Pedal edema is a frequent symptom of heart failure itself and may not necessarily be directly related to digoxin use. It is crucial to monitor for changes in pedal edema, but it is not a specific adverse effect of digoxin. Option C) Bruising is also not a typical adverse effect of digoxin. Bruising may occur due to various reasons such as trauma or underlying clotting disorders, but it is not directly linked to digoxin use. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the specific adverse effects of medications, especially those commonly used in managing chronic conditions like heart failure. It emphasizes the need for close monitoring and timely reporting of any unusual symptoms to prevent serious complications in patient care.