A client with postpartum depression receives a prescription for sertraline. Which information is most important for the nurse to include in client teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Contact the healthcare provider (HCP) immediately if suicidal thoughts occur: Antidepressants like sertraline can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially during the early stages of treatment. Immediate reporting of such thoughts is critical to ensure the client’s safety and prevent harm.B. Contact the healthcare provider (HCP) immediately if muscle stiffness occurs: Although rare, muscle stiffness could signal serotonin syndrome if occurs with a constellation of symptoms including confusion, agitation, fever, sweating and tremors, not just stiffness. Suicidal ideation presents a more immediate and life-threatening risk in clients starting antidepressants and requires the highest priority.C. Increase activity level to include a daily exercise routine: While exercise is beneficial for managing depression, it is supportive therapy and not the most urgent teaching point compared to recognizing and reporting suicidal ideation associated with antidepressant use.D. Avoid processed meats, red wine, and Swiss cheese: This dietary restriction is necessary when taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) to prevent hypertensive crises. Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), so these dietary precautions are not required.