A patient with major depression is started on sertraline ...

[Pineappleeh]

A patient with major depression is started on sertraline (Zoloft). A nurse is providing patient education. Which statement by the patient best demonstrates understanding of the possible side effects of sertraline (Zoloft)?
 
  a. I may have trouble with stiff muscles.
  b. I need to have frequent, complete blood tests.
  c. I may feel nervous and have trouble sleeping.
  d. I should drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily.

Question 2

A patient with a history of gastric ulcers is admitted to the unit. A nurse reviews the admission medications.
 
  During the health history, the nurse notes that the patient has been taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and fluoxetine (Prozac). Which of the following laboratory tests would be the priority for the nurse to make sure that the prescriber has ordered?
  a. Sodium level
  b. Platelet level
  c. Fluoxetine (Prozac) level
  d. Potassium level

[elyse44]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The patient is correct to state that nervousness and insomnia may be experienced, because these are common side effects of sertraline.
Stiff muscles are not a side effect of sertraline therapy.
There is no need for the patient to have frequent complete blood tests.
There is no need to increase fluid intake in a patient on sertraline therapy.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Fluoxetine and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can increase the risk of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, and caution is advised in patients taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; together, these drugs put this patient, who has a history of ulcers, at great risk for bleeding episodes.
Sodium, fluoxetine, and potassium levels are not indicated as a priority for this patient.