Information given to a depressed patient and family when the patient begins selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant therapy should include the directive to:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: report increased suicidal thoughts. This is important because SSRIs may initially increase suicidal ideation in some patients before improving mood. By reporting any increased suicidal thoughts, the healthcare provider can closely monitor the patient and adjust the treatment plan if necessary. A: Avoid exposure to bright sunlight is incorrect because there is no direct correlation between SSRIs and sunlight exposure. C: Restrict sodium intake to 1 gm daily is incorrect as there is no specific dietary restriction related to SSRIs. D: Maintain a tyramine-free diet is incorrect because this is more relevant for MAOIs, not SSRIs. In summary, B is the correct answer as it focuses on the safety and well-being of the patient when starting SSRI therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because clozapine can cause agranulocytosis, a serious condition characterized by a low white blood cell count, leading to increased susceptibility to infections. Therefore, it is crucial for the patient to report sore throat and fever immediately to monitor their blood count. Choice A is important for overall health but not directly related to the medication. Choice C is not a priority as dietary changes may not have an immediate impact on the medication's effectiveness. Choice D is incorrect as over-the-counter preparations may not be suitable for potential clozapine-related rashes, which should also be reported to the healthcare provider.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Computed tomography (CT). CT scans use X-ray technology to create detailed images of brain structures. This technique is ideal for measuring brain structure due to its ability to provide clear and precise images of the brain's anatomy. Explanation: - CT scans are commonly used to assess brain structures such as the size, shape, and density of tissues. - The high-resolution images produced by CT scans allow healthcare professionals to identify abnormalities, tumors, hemorrhages, and other structural issues in the brain. - Unlike functional brain imaging techniques like PET, SPECT, and BEAM, which focus on brain activity, CT is specifically designed for visualizing brain structure. Summary of other choices: B: PET measures brain activity by detecting radioactive tracers. C: BEAM records brain electrical activity using electrodes. D: SPECT images brain blood flow and activity using radioactive tracers.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are commonly used as adjuvant medication for tendonitis due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and swelling in the affected area. They work by suppressing the inflammatory response in the tendon, thereby alleviating pain. Antidepressants (A) and anticonvulsants (B) are not typically used for tendonitis pain. Local anesthesia (D) provides temporary pain relief but does not address the underlying inflammation associated with tendonitis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Cardiac output is the amount of blood pumped by the heart per minute, influencing blood pressure. 2. Systemic vascular resistance refers to the resistance to blood flow in the blood vessels, affecting blood pressure regulation. 3. Both parameters work together to regulate arterial blood pressure by determining the amount of blood pumped by the heart and the resistance to blood flow in the vessels. Summary: - Choice A is correct as both cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance play key roles in regulating arterial blood pressure. - Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly impact blood pressure regulation through the parameters mentioned.