A client is questioning why she was told that the nausea she is experiencing with this new antidepressant medication will subside once her medication is regulated. Based on the pharmacologic principle of steady state, the nurse explains that:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because steady state refers to the point where drug intake equals drug elimination in the body, leading to a constant drug concentration. This equilibrium is reached after approximately 4-5 half-lives of the medication. Once the body reaches steady state, the drug's effects, including nausea, become more predictable and stable. Choice B is incorrect because blood work cannot determine the exact time it takes for the body to reach steady state. Choice C is incorrect because the number of doses is not a reliable indicator for when steady state is reached, as it depends on the drug's half-life and individual factors. Choice D is incorrect because stating that antidepressants have a relatively short half-life is not universally true, and the time to reach steady state can vary depending on the specific medication and individual factors.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Have you been having trouble sleeping?" This is the correct question because melatonin is commonly used as a sleep aid. The nurse should inquire about the patient's sleep patterns to assess the effectiveness of melatonin and potential side effects related to sleep. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the use of melatonin as a sleep aid in older adults with depression. Asking about memory, anxiety, or weight loss is not as relevant in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Precontemplation: denial of problem; goal is to create awareness of the problem. In motivational interviewing, the first stage is Precontemplation, where the individual is unaware or in denial of the problem. The goal is to help them recognize the issue and increase awareness. Choice B (Contemplation) is incorrect because it comes after Precontemplation and involves recognizing the need to change, not denial. Choice C (Determination) is incorrect as it follows Contemplation and involves planning and committing to action. Choice D (Action) is incorrect as it is the stage where the individual applies the change, which comes after Determination.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Buspirone (BuSpar). Buspirone is commonly used for patients with GAD due to its non-addictive nature and lack of sedative effects like benzodiazepines. It works by affecting serotonin receptors in the brain, reducing anxiety symptoms. ECG changes (choice B) are not a treatment for GAD. Valium (choice C) is a benzodiazepine, which can be addictive and is not recommended for long-term use in GAD. Divalproex (Depakote) (choice D) is typically used for mood disorders like bipolar disorder and not as a first-line treatment for GAD.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin at the presynaptic membrane, leading to increased availability of serotonin in the synaptic cleft. This helps alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Choice B, Polyuria, is a symptom related to excessive urination and is not a class of medication. Choice C, Carbamazepine, is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer that works by different mechanisms, not by increasing serotonin availability. Choice D, Lithium, is also a mood stabilizer primarily used in bipolar disorder and does not directly increase serotonin levels.