Author Question: A pregnant patient is taking an atypical antipsychotic. For what specific risk should the nurse ... (Read 74 times)

Melani1276 · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A pregnant patient is taking an atypical antipsychotic. For what specific risk should the nurse monitor this patient?

1. Depression
2. Preeclampsia
3. Hypothyroidism
4. Gestational diabetes

Question 2

A patient diagnosed with depression tells the nurse that, on the advice of her friends, she discontinued her medication as soon as she discovered she was pregnant. What is the most appropriate way for the nurse to respond?

1. That is a good idea. Those drugs can be dangerous.
2. It is never a good idea to stop taking antidepressant medication.
3. If you don't continue to take the medication, you are seriously endangering yourself.
4. I think you should consult with your prescribing provider and get all the information you need to help you make the best decision.

katkat_flores · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: 4
Explanation: Many atypical antipsychotics can induce metabolic syndrome, increasing the risk for gestational diabetes in the mother, which increases the overall pregnancy risk and requires close monitoring throughout the pregnancy. Depression risk, the risk of preeclampsia, and the possibility of hypothyroidism are not increased in pregnant patients taking atypical antipsychotics.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: 4
Explanation: A comprehensive risk-benefit analysis for both the mother and the fetus should be performed with the patient's provider and the patient's decision should be supported by the nursing staff. Although antidepressant medications taken during pregnancy may have adverse consequences, discontinuation of treatment during pregnancy has been shown to increase rates of relapse, and untreated or inadequately treated depression or anxiety can have a negative impact on the neurodevelopment of the fetus. The decision to discontinue medication should be made using a risk-benefit analysis in consultation with the prescribing provider.