The client receives paroxetine (Paxil), and tells the nurse that sexual dysfunction has become a problem. What is the best response by the nurse?

Question

1. "This side effect usually subsides in a few months."
2. "This is common. Please discuss it with your physician."
3. "Your depression is of primary concern right now."
4. "You should stop the medication right away."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 2

Rationale 1: "This side effect usually subsides in a few months" is incorrect because this side effect of sexual dysfunction usually does not subside with long-term use.
Rationale 2: The most common side effect of SSRIs relates to sexual dysfunction. Clients should be encouraged to discuss this with their physician. The side effect of sexual dysfunction usually does not subside with long-term use. The nurse should address physiological concerns with the client without being condescending. Clients should not abruptly stop paroxetine (Paxil) because of withdrawal side effects.
Rationale 3: "Your depression is of primary concern right now" is incorrect because the nurse should address physiological concerns with the client without being condescending.
Rationale 4: "You should stop the medication right away" is incorrect because clients should not abruptly stop paroxetine (Paxil), due to withdrawal side effects.

Global Rationale: The most common side effect of SSRIs relates to sexual dysfunction. Clients should be encouraged to discuss this with their physician. The side effect of sexual dysfunction usually does not subside with long-term use. The nurse should address physiological concerns with the client without being condescending. Clients should not abruptly stop paroxetine (Paxil) because of withdrawal side effects. "This side effect usually subsides in a few months" is incorrect because this side effect of sexual dysfunction usually does not subside with long-term use. "Your depression is of primary concern right now" is incorrect because the nurse should address physiological concerns with the client without being condescending. "You should stop the medication right away" is incorrect because clients should not abruptly stop paroxetine (Paxil), due to withdrawal side effects.