A new antidepressant is prescribed for an elderly patient with ...

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A new antidepressant is prescribed for an elderly patient with major depression, but the dose is more than the usual geriatric dose. The nurse should:
 
  a. consult a reliable drug reference.
  b. teach the patient about possible side effects and adverse effects.
  c. withhold the medication and confer with the health care provider.
  d. encourage the patient to increase oral fluids to reduce drug concentration.

Question 2

A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia believes a local minister stirred evil spirits. The patient threatens to bomb a local church. The psychiatrist notifies the minister. Select the answer with the correct rationale. The psychiatrist:
 
  a. released information without proper authorization.
  b. demonstrated the duty to warn and protect.
  c. violated the patient's confidentiality.
  d. avoided charges of malpractice.

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Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The dose of antidepressants for elderly patients is often less than the usual adult dose. The nurse should withhold the medication and consult the health care provider who wrote the order. The nurse's duty is to practice according to professional standards as well as intervene and protect the patient.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
It is the health care professional's duty to warn or notify an intended victim after a threat of harm has been made. Informing a potential victim of a threat is a legal responsibility of the health care professional. It is not a violation of confidentiality.