A nurse instructs a patient taking a drug that inhibits the ...

[nelaaney]

A nurse instructs a patient taking a drug that inhibits the action of a monoamine oxidase (MAO) to avoid certain foods and drugs because of the risk of:
 
  a. hypotensive shock.
  b. hypertensive crisis.
  c. cardiac dysrhythmia.
  d. cardiogenic shock.

Question 2

A patient was started on escitalopram (Lexapro) 5 days ago and now says, This medicine isn't working. The nurse's best intervention would be to:
 
  a. discuss with the health care provider the need to change medications.
  b. reassure the patient that the medication will be effective soon.
  c. explain the time lag before antidepressants relieve symptoms.
  d. critically assess the patient for symptom relief.

[dmurph1496]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Patients taking MAOI-inhibiting drugs must be on a tyramine-free diet to prevent hypertensive crisis. In the presence of MAOIs, tyramine is not destroyed by the liver and, in high levels, produces intense vasoconstriction, resulting in elevated blood pressure.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant. Between 1 and 3 weeks of treatment are usually necessary before a relief of symptoms occurs. This information is important to share with patients.

[nelaaney]

Thank you

[dmurph1496]

Happy to help you