ATI RN
Psychotherapeutic Drugs Quiz Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is aware that he or she may be administering the new antianxiety medication pregabalin (Lyrica) to clients without an anxiety disorder for the purpose of treating:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In understanding the rationale behind administering pregabalin (Lyrica) to clients without an anxiety disorder for the purpose of treating neuropathic pain, it is crucial to comprehend the pharmacological properties of this medication. Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant drug that is also effective in managing neuropathic pain by modulating calcium channels in the central nervous system. This mechanism of action makes it suitable for conditions like diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia, and fibromyalgia. Option A, depression, is incorrect as pregabalin is not indicated for the treatment of depression. Antidepressants like SSRIs or SNRIs are commonly prescribed for depression. Option B, psychotic episodes, is incorrect because pregabalin is not approved for the treatment of psychotic disorders. Antipsychotic medications are typically used in the management of psychotic episodes. Option D, bipolar disorder, is incorrect as pregabalin is not a first-line treatment for bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers like lithium or anticonvulsants such as valproate are commonly used in bipolar disorder management. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind using a medication off-label, like pregabalin for neuropathic pain, highlights the importance of pharmacological knowledge, patient assessment, and evidence-based practice in nursing. It emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to have a comprehensive understanding of drug actions, indications, and contraindications to ensure safe and effective patient care.
Question 2 of 5
In preparing discharge planning for a client who has been prescribed lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder, the nurse must be sure that the client demonstrates an understanding of the need to monitor his or her diet for intake of:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the context of a client being prescribed lithium for bipolar disorder, monitoring sodium intake is crucial due to the potential interactions between lithium and sodium levels in the body. Lithium is excreted by the kidneys, and its elimination is affected by sodium levels. High sodium levels can lead to decreased lithium excretion, increasing the risk of lithium toxicity. Therefore, it is essential for the client to maintain a consistent and moderate sodium intake to ensure the effectiveness and safety of lithium therapy. Regarding the other options: - Potassium (Option A): While electrolyte balance is important, monitoring potassium levels is not specifically required for clients taking lithium. - Carbohydrates (Option B): Carbohydrate intake is not directly related to lithium therapy monitoring. - Protein (Option C): Protein intake is not directly related to lithium therapy monitoring. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind monitoring sodium intake in clients taking lithium is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to ensure safe medication management and prevent potential adverse effects. It highlights the intricate relationship between medication, electrolyte balance, and dietary considerations in the context of mental health treatment. This knowledge equips healthcare professionals to educate clients effectively on managing their condition and treatment regimen for optimal outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
A female client calls the clinic for advice after forgetting to take her morning dose of twice-daily lithium 5 hours ago. Which instructions should the nurse give the client?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, option C is the correct instruction for the nurse to give the client. The rationale behind this is that lithium has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that maintaining a consistent blood level is crucial to avoid toxicity or lack of efficacy. By eliminating the missed dose and sticking to the regular dosing schedule, the client minimizes the risk of fluctuations in lithium levels. Option A is incorrect because taking two doses too close together can increase the risk of toxicity. Option B is also incorrect because splitting the dose may lead to inconsistent blood levels. Option D is incorrect as it suggests doubling up on the doses, which can also increase the risk of toxicity. From an educational perspective, it is important for nurses to understand the pharmacokinetics of psychotherapeutic drugs like lithium to provide safe and effective care to clients. Teaching clients about the importance of adherence to dosing schedules and the risks associated with missed doses is crucial in managing mental health conditions effectively. This scenario highlights the significance of precise medication management in psychiatric care.
Question 4 of 5
A female client who has had bipolar disorder for several years decides to stop all of her medications because she is tired of the side effects. She also cancels all appointments with her therapist, stating that it is just too difficult to plan the visits in her hectic schedule. This client is considered:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Noncompliance occurs with many individuals with mental health disorders because of the ways the side effects of the medication affect an individual as well as other factors. It is important to work with clients to prevent noncompliance. Depression, anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive tendencies are not indicated in the situation described.
Question 5 of 5
A male client with schizophrenia lives in an assisted-living complex for individuals with mental health disorders. He is tired of the Parkinson-like symptoms he experiences with his diagnosed with mild depression but opts not to take the medication prescribed by her physician after talking with the physician about the benefits, risks, possible outcomes, and side effects. She decides to investigate alternative treatments. This client is making this decision based on the premise of:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The Patient Self-Determination Act states that individuals who are not in an emergency or safety-threatening situation cannot be coerced, forced, or talked into following a suggested course, such as taking medication against their will. All three remaining options go against the Act. In addition, an involuntary emergency hold in a mental facility is not reasonable because the client is not a threat to himself or others.