A patient who is prescribed an antidepressant medication tells a nurse, “I’ve been getting dizzy in the morning when I wake up ever since I started this drug. Do you think I should stop taking it?” Which communication would reflect the most therapeutic nursing intervention on the basis of the patient’s problem?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it provides the patient with appropriate education on how to manage the dizziness related to orthostatic hypotension, a common side effect of antidepressants. Changing positions slowly and dangling feet can prevent sudden drops in blood pressure upon standing. Choice B is incorrect as stopping driving may not be necessary, and napping may not directly address the dizziness. Choice C is incorrect as it dismisses the patient's symptoms and does not provide practical advice on managing the dizziness. Choice D is incorrect as abruptly stopping the medication without consulting the doctor can be dangerous and does not address the underlying issue of orthostatic hypotension.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Salami and Swiss cheese sandwich. This is because salami and Swiss cheese are high in tyramine, which can cause a hypertensive crisis in patients taking MAOIs due to their inhibitory effect on monoamine oxidase. Orange juice (A) does not contain tyramine. Fried eggs over-easy (B) and biscuits with honey (D) are also safe choices as they do not contain high levels of tyramine. Therefore, the need for additional teaching is indicated by the selection of foods high in tyramine like salami and Swiss cheese.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Signs of cinchonism, such as tinnitus, loss of hearing, or slight blurring of vision, may occur. Cinchonism is a potential side effect of quinidine sulfate, characterized by symptoms like tinnitus, loss of hearing, and blurred vision. It is essential for the nurse to educate the patient about these potential adverse effects to ensure early recognition and prompt reporting to the healthcare provider. This information is crucial for monitoring the patient's response to the medication and preventing further complications. Incorrect choices: A: The medication should not be stopped abruptly, and it is important to complete the prescribed course even if symptoms subside to prevent recurrence. C: While photosensitivity can be a side effect of some medications, it is not specifically associated with quinidine sulfate. It is not a priority teaching point for this medication. D: Seeing the tablet in the stool does not necessarily indicate treatment failure or danger. It is more likely due to the extended

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because antitussive drugs are used to suppress coughing. In the case of a patient who has developed bronchitis 2 days after abdominal surgery, coughing can be painful and may strain the surgical site. Therefore, using antitussive drugs to reduce the coughing can help prevent complications and promote healing post-surgery. A, B, and C are incorrect: A: Antitussive drugs are not appropriate for a patient with pneumonia and productive cough because coughing helps clear the airways of excess mucus. B: Antitussive drugs are not suitable for a patient with a tracheostomy and thick mucus secretions as coughing helps clear the secretions and prevent infections. C: Antitussive drugs are not indicated for a patient with a productive cough for 2 weeks as this may be a sign of an underlying condition that needs to be addressed rather than suppressed.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Parenteral administration usually produces a more rapid response than oral administration because the medication bypasses the digestive system and is directly absorbed into the bloodstream. This route includes injections, intravenous infusions, and intramuscular injections, allowing for quicker onset of action. Option A is incorrect as parenteral administration can be used in unconscious patients. Option B is incorrect as parenteral administration can provide more accurate dosages. Option D is incorrect as parenteral administration is actually preferred in emergency situations due to its rapid effects.