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Today

0800:

Client presents to the clinic with reports of restlessness, abdominal pain, disorientation, and fei.br for the past 1 2 hr. States, "l don’t know what is wrong with me." Client denies recent illness. Denies fatigue and chills. Reports falling yesterday but didn't hit their head. Reports taking ibuprofen for muscle soreness. Client reports continued sleep disturbances, feelings of hopelessness, and a disinterest in activities.

1 week ago:

Client reports the manifestations of hopelessness and disinterest are lessened, but present. Sleep disturbance continues. Provider increased paroxetine to 30 mg daily. Return to clinic in 1 week.

2 weeks ago:

Client With a history of generalized anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder. Client presents with increased hopelessness, disinterest, and a change in sleep and appetite over several months. Client is currently taking fluoxetine 20 mg daily for the past year. Fluoxetine discontinued and paroxetine 10 mg daily started. Return to clinic in 1 week.


Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options. The client is at risk for developing due to.



Hint : 🎯SSRI change + fever = serotonin syndrome.

Correct Answers

  • Blank 1 Correct Option: serotonin syndrome
  • Blank 2 Correct Option: adverse effects of paroxetine.

Rationale :

🔹 Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that increases serotonin levels in the CNS.

🔹The client was recently switched from fluoxetine and had their paroxetine dose increased, which places them at high risk of excessive serotonergic activity.

🔹 Symptoms like restlessness, fever, confusion, and abdominal pain are classic signs of serotonin syndrome, especially when appearing within hours of a medication adjustment.

🔹 The combination or quick switch between SSRIs (fluoxetine to paroxetine) without a proper washout period can trigger a toxic accumulation of serotonin.

🔹 Mental status changes, including disorientation and feelings of being "not right," indicate central nervous system involvement, a hallmark of serotonin toxicity.

🔹 Autonomic instability (e.g., fever without chills, increased neuromuscular activity) further supports the diagnosis and urgency for medical attention.


Distractor Analysis :

Rationale for Incorrect Options to be Available Soon

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