ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Assessment Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is administering an antidepressant medication to a client. The nurse should understand that which of the following is the major difference between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: TCAs are lethal in overdose. Tricyclic antidepressants are more toxic in overdose compared to SSRIs due to their effects on cardiac conduction, leading to fatal arrhythmias. This is a critical difference to be aware of when administering antidepressants.
A: SSRIs and TCAs have similar efficacy, so this statement is incorrect.
B: SSRIs typically have a lower sedative effect compared to TCAs, so this statement is incorrect.
D: TCAs are associated with more cardiovascular side effects compared to SSRIs, so this statement is incorrect.
In summary, the major difference between SSRIs and TCAs lies in the potential lethality of TCAs in overdose, making it crucial for nurses to be vigilant in monitoring and educating clients on safe medication use.
Question 2 of 5
Correct Answer:
Rationale:
Question 3 of 5
Correct Answer:
Rationale:
Question 4 of 5
Correct Answer:
Rationale:
Question 5 of 5
Correct Answer:
Rationale: