An older adult has diabetic neuropathy and often reports unbearable foot pain. About which medication would the nurse plan to educate the client?
a. Desipramine (Norpramin)
b. Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
c. Morphine sulfate
d. Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
ANS: B
Antidepressants and anticonvulsants often are used for neuropathic pain relief. Morphine would not be used for this client. However, older adults do not tolerate tricyclic antidepressants very well, which eliminates desipramine and nortriptyline. Duloxetine would be the best choice for this older client.
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The nurse is developing and assessing a family pedigree to find if there is a need for referral to specialized genetic counseling. Which findings would indicate a need for this referral?
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The nurse is caring for a patient with a mental illness. Which should the nurse keep in mind when using mindfulness with this patient? (Select all that apply.)
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