Answer to Question 1
ANS: A, B, C, D
Compliancy with prescribed medications over the last 2 months provides the health care provider with information regarding the patient's state of mind and ability to follow through with medication administration independently. Patients with altered thought processes often display inconsistencies between statements of feelings and behavior norms in social settings. Coherency, relevancy, and organization of thoughts are often affected by thought disorders. This assessment also provides information regarding the accuracy of other information that the patient has offered. Note general appearance and appropriateness of attire and posture because these are often affected by mood disorders. Elimination pattern is not a priority premedication assessment.
Answer to Question 2
ANS: B, D, E
SSRIs block the destruction and storage of serotonin at the synaptic cleft, therefore increasing the amount of serotonin available. Monocyclic antidepressants have an unknown mechanism of action. They are weaker inhibitors of the reuptake and inactivation of the neurotransmitters serotonin norepinephrine and dopamine. SNRIs act by inhibiting the reuptake and destruction of serotonin and norepinephrine and, to a lesser extent, dopamine, from the synaptic cleft, thereby prolonging the action of the neurotransmitters. MAOIs act by blocking the metabolic destruction of dopamine, so concentration is increased. Tricyclics block the reuptake of neurotransmitters, not their effects.