NursingPlex
    Sign In

    ATI RN Mental Health 2023 Proctored Exam

    Tutor Mode

    0m 00s
    Question 1 / 58
    0058
    Ati Rn Mental Health 2023 Proctored Exam

    A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has depressive disorder and a new prescription for doxepin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

    Explanation

    Choice A reason: Eating a snack before bed is not a standard recommendation for doxepin, a tricyclic antidepressant. Food intake does not significantly alter doxepin’s pharmacokinetics, but its antihistaminic properties may increase appetite, potentially leading to weight gain. This side effect is not directly related to administration timing, and snacking may exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort, making it an irrelevant instruction for safe use. Choice B reason: Doxepin can cause orthostatic hypotension due to alpha-adrenergic receptor blockade, leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing. This increases the risk of dizziness or fainting, particularly in older adults. Sitting on the bed before standing allows the cardiovascular system to stabilize, reducing fall risk and ensuring patient safety during position changes. Choice C reason: Reducing doxepin’s dose without medical supervision is unsafe. Tricyclic antidepressants have a narrow therapeutic index, and abrupt dose changes can lead to withdrawal symptoms, relapse of depression, or serotonin imbalance. Dose adjustments must be guided by a provider to maintain therapeutic efficacy and prevent adverse effects, making this instruction inappropriate. Choice D reason: There is no specific interaction between doxepin and over-the-counter magnesium. Doxepin’s primary interactions involve cytochrome P450 enzymes and other medications, not dietary supplements like magnesium. While magnesium may affect other conditions or medications, it is not a priority concern for doxepin, making this instruction unnecessary for safe administration in depression management.

    Submit to Reveal Answer