ATI RN
Psychotherapeutic Drugs Quiz Questions
Question 1 of 5
A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor is prescribed for a patient. The nurse knows that which drug is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Paroxetine. Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. It is commonly used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other conditions. Amitriptyline (B) is a tricyclic antidepressant, not an SSRI. Divalproex sodium (C) is an anticonvulsant used for epilepsy and bipolar disorder, not an SSRI. Bupropion hydrochloride (D) is an atypical antidepressant that works on dopamine and norepinephrine, not serotonin. Therefore, the correct choice is A as it is the only SSRI in the options provided.
Question 2 of 5
Which statement is true concerning lithium?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because concurrent use of NSAIDs can increase lithium levels by reducing its renal clearance. This is due to NSAIDs inhibiting the renal excretion of lithium, leading to potential lithium toxicity. Option A is incorrect as the maximum dose of lithium is typically around 2.4 g/day. Option B is also incorrect as the therapeutic range for lithium is usually between 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L for acute mania and 0.6 to 1.0 mEq/L for maintenance therapy. Option C is incorrect because lithium is known to inhibit the release of neurotransmitters, including gamma-aminobutyric acid, rather than increasing receptor sensitivity.
Question 3 of 5
When a patient is taking an antidepressant, what should the nurse do? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. Antidepressants can initially worsen suicidal thoughts in some patients. 2. Monitoring for suicidal tendencies allows early intervention. 3. Suicide risk assessment is essential during antidepressant therapy. 4. Prompt identification of suicidal ideation can prevent self-harm. Summary: - B: Orthostatic hypotension is a common side effect but not directly related to monitoring antidepressant therapy. - C: Taking the drug with food is for gastrointestinal distress, not specific to antidepressant monitoring. - D: Information about drug effectiveness does not address the critical need to monitor for suicidal tendencies.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is taking lithium. The nurse should be aware of the importance of which nursing intervention(s)? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Observe the patient for motor tremors. Motor tremors are common side effects of lithium therapy, indicating toxicity. By observing for tremors, the nurse can detect early signs of lithium toxicity and take necessary actions. Monitoring for hypotension (choice B) and orthostatic hypotension (choice D) are not related to lithium therapy. Drawing lithium blood levels immediately after a dose (choice C) is not necessary as lithium levels are usually checked before the next dose.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is assessing a patient who is complaining of hearing voices. What is this patient experiencing?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Hallucinations are false sensory perceptions that are experienced without an external stimulus but seem real to the patient. Auditory hallucinations are prominent in a schizophrenic patient. Additional sensory hallucinations include those of touch, sight, smell, and body sensation. Delusions are false beliefs that persist despite evidence to the contrary. Flight of ideas is characterized by rapid changes in thought from one topic to another. Disorganized thinking is commonly associated with psychoses and consists of a flight of ideas during which the individual jumps from one idea or topic to another one.