A 76-year-old woman has been prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for the treatment of her depression. What assessments should the nurse prioritize during the initial days of the patient's drug therapy?
A) Monitoring for changes in the patient's cognitive status and nutrition.
B) Regular assessment of the patient's vital signs.
C) Monitoring the patient's blood work for fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
D) Assessment of the patient's integument for signs of skin breakdown of inadequate circulation.
A
Feedback:
Psychiatric medications can influence the cognition and nutritional status of patients more frequently than their vital signs, fluid and electrolytes, and integument.
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