A patient asks, What are neurotransmitters? My doctor said mine are imbalanced. Select the nurse™s best response.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because neurotransmitters are indeed natural chemicals that pass messages between brain cells. This response directly addresses the patient's question by providing a clear and accurate definition of neurotransmitters. Choice A is incorrect because it does not provide any information about neurotransmitters and focuses on the patient's feelings instead. Choice B is incorrect as it confuses neurotransmitters with antioxidants that protect against free radicals. Choice C is incorrect because it inaccurately suggests that neurotransmitters are substances consumed, which is not the primary function of neurotransmitters. In summary, choice D is the best response as it accurately defines neurotransmitters, while the other choices are incorrect due to their lack of clarity or accuracy regarding the nature and function of neurotransmitters.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Anticholinergic drugs block acetylcholine, affecting parasympathetic (rest and digest) functions. 2. The parasympathetic system controls functions like digestion, urination, and constriction of pupils. 3. Inhibited parasympathetic function can lead to symptoms like dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. 4. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because anticholinergic drugs do not directly affect the sympathetic nervous system, reticular activating system, or medulla oblongata.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are the first-line medication for acute anxiety due to their rapid onset of action and effectiveness in reducing anxiety symptoms. They work by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps to calm the central nervous system. Tricyclic antidepressants (A) are not typically used for acute anxiety and have a slower onset of action. Antipsychotic drugs (B) are not indicated for anxiety and are more commonly used for psychotic disorders. Mood stabilizers (C) are used to manage mood disorders like bipolar disorder and are not typically used for acute anxiety. In summary, benzodiazepines are the most appropriate choice for managing acute anxiety in this scenario due to their rapid action and effectiveness in reducing anxiety symptoms.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step 1: Phenothiazine medications have a strong dopaminergic effect, which can result in extrapyramidal side effects such as muscle movement changes. Step 2: Teaching the patient to report changes in muscle movement is crucial to monitor for potential side effects. Step 3: Chewing sugarless gum is not directly related to the dopaminergic effect of the drug. Step 4: Increasing dietary fiber is not specifically relevant to the dopaminergic effect of the drug. Step 5: Arising slowly from bed is more related to orthostatic hypotension, a common side effect of phenothiazines, rather than the dopaminergic effect.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: phenelzine. Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant that requires dietary restrictions to avoid tyramine-containing foods. Tyramine-rich foods can cause a hypertensive crisis when combined with MAOIs. The other medications listed do not have specific dietary restrictions related to their use. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic, carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant, and trazodone is an antidepressant, none of which necessitate a special diet. Therefore, the nurse should order a special diet for the patient taking phenelzine to prevent potential adverse reactions.