Author Question: The client will be receiving amitriptyline (Elavil), a tricyclic antidepressant, for chronic ... (Read 22 times)

danielfitts88 · **on:** Jul 24, 2018

The client will be receiving amitriptyline (Elavil), a tricyclic antidepressant, for chronic anxiety. Which nursing assessment is a priority for this client?

1. History of alcoholism
2. History of heart disease
3. History of ulcers
4. History of diabetes mellitus

Question 2

An elderly client receives temazepam (Restoril) for sleep. Which assessment data is indicative of a potentially serious complication?

1. The client reports a dry mouth.
2. The client becomes agitated.
3. The client sleeps for 1 hour longer than usual.
4. The client reports a decrease in appetite.

phuda · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 24, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2

Rationale 1: A history of alcoholism is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants are not addictive.
Rationale 2: History of heart disease is a priority assessment because tricyclic antidepressants are not recommended in clients with a history of heart attack, heart block, or abnormal heart rhythm.
Rationale 3: A history of ulcers is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants do not alter gastrointestinal mucosa.
Rationale 4: A history of diabetes mellitus is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants do not alter glucose metabolism.

Global Rationale: History of heart disease is a priority assessment because tricyclic antidepressants are not recommended in clients with a history of heart attack, heart block, or abnormal heart rhythm. A history of alcoholism is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants are not addictive. A history of ulcers is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants do not alter gastrointestinal mucosa. A history of diabetes mellitus is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants do not alter glucose metabolism.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2

Rationale 1: While dry mouth could be a side effect, it is easily managed, and not a serious complication.
Rationale 2: Medication can accumulate in the system of elderly clients and produce generalized brain dysfunction. This can result in agitation.
Rationale 3: Sleeping 1 extra hour would be a positive benefit.
Rationale 4: This medication is not an appetite suppressant, so it would not affect appetite.

Global Rationale: Medication can accumulate in the system of elderly clients and produce generalized brain dysfunction. This can result in agitation. While dry mouth could be a side effect, it is easily managed, and not a serious complication. Sleeping 1 extra hour would be a positive benefit. This medication is not an appetite suppressant, so it would not affect appetite.