A patient taking amitriptyline (Elavil) complains of having blurred vision and dry mouth, and he states that he hasn't had a bowel movement in 3 days, whereas he normally has one daily
His vital signs are temperature 97.6° F, pulse 78/minute, blood pressure 130/79, and respirations 20/minutes. Based on this assessment, the nurse should suspect which of the following causes?
a. Possible toxicity
b. Cholinergic effects
c. Dehydration
d. Anticholinergic effects
ANS: D
The signs and symptoms displayed by the patient are consistent with the anticholinergic effects common in patients taking amitriptyline.
There is no evidence of amitriptyline toxicity.
The patient is displaying anticholinergic, not cholinergic, signs and symptoms,.
The patient's findings are not consistent with dehydration, because his pulse rate is within normal limits and he is not hypotensive.
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