A patient reports taking St. John's wort to treat symptoms of ...

[Sufayan.ah]

A patient reports taking St. John's wort to treat symptoms of depression and asks the nurse how to use this product safely and effectively. Which response by the nurse is correct?
 
  a. Apply sunscreen while taking St. John's wort.
  b. It is safe to take St. John's wort with prescription antidepressants.
  c. St. John's wort does not affect nutrition.
  d. You should take St. John's wort as needed when symptoms occur.

Question 2

The nurse is providing preoperative education to a patient who will have surgery in several weeks. The patient denies taking anticoagulant medications but reports using herbal supplements. Which herb would cause the nurse to be concerned?
 
  a. Echinacea
  b. Ginkgo biloba
  c. Kava
  d. Sage

[xoxo123]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
St. John's wort can cause photosensitivity, so patients should be counseled to use sunscreen. It should not be taken with prescription antidepressants because it increases the risk of suicidal ideation. It interferes with the absorption of iron and other minerals. Effects do not occur for 4 to 8 weeks, so it cannot be taken as needed.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Ginkgo can prolong bleeding time and therefore should be discontinued 2 weeks prior to surgery.

[Sufayan.ah]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[bulacsom]

TYSM