What will the nurse include in a teaching plan for a patient with depression being treated with amitriptyline (Elavil)? (Select all that apply.)
a. Dryness of the mouth is normal; sucking on sugar free hard candy and ice chips or chewing gum may help alleviate this problem.
b. Rise slowly from a supine or sitting position to avoid dizziness and orthostatic hypotension.
c. Avoid alcohol and barbiturates.
d. If adverse effects occur, discontinue the medication.
e. An immediate elevation in mood will be noted.
ANS: A, B, C
Common adverse effects associated with tricyclic antidepressants are dry mouth and orthostatic hypotension. Alcohol and barbiturates should be avoided while taking tricyclic antidepressants because they enhance sedation. Adverse effects are likely to occur, and the medication should not be discontinued without the direction of the health care provider. Tricyclic antidepressants typically take several weeks to produce a therapeutic effect.
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The nurse could maximize patient teaching for an individual with an identified auditory learning style preference by
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A 20-year-old college student has stopped attending classes. The student exhibits disorganized thinking, stays in his room all the time, hears voices, and is convinced that a fellow student is spreading untruths about him
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