An older adult client is hospitalized with Guillain-Barré syndrome. The client is given amitriptyline (Elavil). After receiving the hand-off report, what actions by the nurse are most important? (Select all that apply.)
a. Administering the medication as ordered
b. Advising the client to have help getting up
c. Consulting the provider about the drug
d. Cutting the dose of the drug in half
e. Placing the client on safety precautions
ANS: B, C, E
Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant and is considered inappropriate for use in older clients due to concerns of anticholinergic effects, confusion, and safety risks. The nurse should tell the client to have help getting up, place the client on safety precautions, and consult the provider. Since this drug is not appropriate for older clients, cutting the dose in half is not warranted.
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