When teaching Mary, who has depression, about foods to avoid while taking phenelzine (Nardil), which of the following would Audrey LPN include?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In teaching Mary, who is taking phenelzine (Nardil) for her depression, about foods to avoid, Audrey LPN would include salami as one of the options to avoid. Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that interacts with tyramine-rich foods, which can lead to a hypertensive crisis. Salami is a type of processed meat that is high in tyramine and can potentially trigger this dangerous reaction in individuals taking MAOIs. Fresh fish and soup are generally safe options to consume while on phenelzine, as they are not high in tyramine. Peanut butter, although it contains some tyramine, is usually considered safe in moderate amounts and does not pose as high a risk as salami. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers to educate patients on dietary restrictions while taking MAOIs to prevent adverse reactions. Understanding which foods are safe and which to avoid can help patients manage their medication regimen effectively and safely. This education empowers patients like Mary to make informed choices about their diet and medication management, ultimately supporting their mental health treatment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) antipsychotics. Antipsychotic medications work by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which helps to alleviate symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions. This class of drugs is specifically designed to target the underlying neurochemical imbalances associated with psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. Option B) antidepressants are not the correct answer because they primarily target neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which are implicated in depression and anxiety disorders, not schizophrenia. Option C) stimulants increase the activity of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, making them unsuitable for treating schizophrenia, which involves an excess of dopamine activity in certain brain regions. Option D) sedatives, such as benzodiazepines, are used to treat anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances by enhancing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, but they do not address the specific dopamine dysregulation seen in schizophrenia. Understanding the pharmacological treatment options for mental health conditions is crucial for healthcare professionals working in the field of mental health. Being able to differentiate between various drug classes and their mechanisms of action is essential for providing safe and effective care for individuals with psychiatric disorders.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the treatment of bipolar disorder, particularly during the manic phase, mood stabilizers are the category of drugs that are most effective. The correct answer, A) mood stabilizers, is the right choice because these medications help to regulate mood swings and prevent the extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression) associated with bipolar disorder. Antidepressants (B) are not typically used to treat the manic phase of bipolar disorder as they can potentially trigger manic episodes in some individuals. Antipsychotics (C) are also commonly used in treating bipolar disorder, but they are more effective in managing symptoms of psychosis that can occur during both manic and depressive episodes. Stimulants (D) are not appropriate for treating the manic phase of bipolar disorder as they can exacerbate manic symptoms. In an educational context, it is crucial for students to understand the specific categories of medications used in treating mental health disorders like bipolar disorder. This knowledge helps healthcare professionals make informed decisions when prescribing medications, ensuring the most effective and safe treatment for patients. Understanding the rationale behind why certain drugs are used for specific symptoms is essential in providing quality care to individuals with mental health conditions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of the Behavioral Theory of Mental Health, the correct answer is B) The nurse should document this information and add it to the patient's medication list and notify the charge nurse of the change. This action aligns with person-centered care, respecting the patient's autonomy and choices regarding their health. Option A is incorrect because even though the information may not be part of the formal medication record, it is crucial for the nurse to be aware of all substances the patient is taking to ensure holistic care. Option C is incorrect as it delays necessary action. While researching the benefits is important, immediate documentation and communication within the healthcare team are critical. Option D is incorrect as it undermines the patient's autonomy and may lead to breakdown of trust in the nurse-patient relationship. It is essential to provide non-judgmental and factual information about herbal medications rather than making blanket statements. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of holistic assessment in mental health care, respecting patient choices, effective communication within the healthcare team, and the significance of documentation for continuity of care and patient safety.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Avoid foods containing large amounts of tyramine when teaching patients taking St. John's wort about drug and food interactions. St. John's wort can interact with a variety of medications and foods due to its effect on liver enzymes. Tyramine is a compound found in certain foods like aged cheeses, cured meats, and some fermented products. When combined with St. John's wort, which can increase the breakdown of tyramine, it can lead to a potentially dangerous increase in blood pressure known as hypertensive crisis. Option B) Eat adequate amounts of meat and cheese is incorrect because consuming high amounts of tyramine-rich foods can be harmful when taking St. John's wort. Option C) Increase the length of time in sunlight is incorrect as St. John's wort can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, leading to a higher risk of sunburn or sun damage. Option D) Consult your physician before taking any over-the-counter flu and cold medications is not directly related to the interaction between St. John's wort and tyramine-containing foods. In an educational context, it's crucial for healthcare professionals to educate patients about potential drug-food interactions to ensure their safety and optimize treatment outcomes. Understanding these interactions can help patients make informed decisions about their dietary choices while taking medications like St. John's wort.