The client will be receiving amitriptyline (Elavil), a tricyclic antidepressant, for chronic anxiety. Which nursing assessment is a priority for this client?

Question

1. History of alcoholism
2. History of heart disease
3. History of ulcers
4. History of diabetes mellitus

Answer 1

2

Rationale 1: A history of alcoholism is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants are not addictive.
Rationale 2: History of heart disease is a priority assessment because tricyclic antidepressants are not recommended in clients with a history of heart attack, heart block, or abnormal heart rhythm.
Rationale 3: A history of ulcers is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants do not alter gastrointestinal mucosa.
Rationale 4: A history of diabetes mellitus is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants do not alter glucose metabolism.

Global Rationale: History of heart disease is a priority assessment because tricyclic antidepressants are not recommended in clients with a history of heart attack, heart block, or abnormal heart rhythm. A history of alcoholism is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants are not addictive. A history of ulcers is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants do not alter gastrointestinal mucosa. A history of diabetes mellitus is not a priority, because tricyclic antidepressants do not alter glucose metabolism.