Chapter 15: Antidepressant Drugs Practice Questions Exam Questions (19 Terms) With Verified Definitions Updated 2024

Nortriptyline (Aventyl) was prescribed for a 68-year-old patient diagnosed with depression and insomnia. Benefits specific to use of nortriptyline would include: a. regular bowel movements. b. improved sleep pattern. c. weight loss. d. anhedonia. {Ans: b. improved sleep pattern. Nortriptyline is a secondary amine with a good side effect profile. It has a minimal tendency to cause orthostatic hypotension, meaning the risk of falls is low. It is somewhat sedating, which is helpful to patients with insomnia. The other options are either undesirable or nonspecific outcomes.}The nurse cares for four patients receiving SSRIs. Which assessment finding warrants the nurse's priority attention? a. Dry mouth and stuffy nose b. Malaise and frontal headache c. Confusion, agitation, and hyperthermia d. Constipation, photophobia, and anhidrosis {Ans: c. Confusion, agitation, and hyperthermia The correct response suggests serotonin syndrome, an acute medical problem requiring immediate medical and nursing attention. The distracters are examples of anticholinergic effects and are not considered emergencies.}A patient for whom phenelzine (Nardil) is prescribed complains of a sudden headache and palpitations. The nurse observes dilated pupils and diaphoresis. The nurse's first action should be: a. assess for cogwheel rigidity. b. notify the health care provider. c. assess the patient's