Practice Question
The mental health clinic nurse receives a call from the client that was seen in the office 2 weeks ago. The client was prescribed sertraline (Lustral) and reports to the nurse that they aren't feeling better. What is the nurse's best action?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Request that they allow the medication at least 2 more weeks to take effect
Rationale:
💙 SSRIs like sertraline typically require 4–6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect.
💙 It is normal for clients to feel little or no improvement in the first 1–2 weeks.
💙 Educating the client on expected timelines reduces unnecessary medication changes.
💙 This reassurance increases adherence and prevents premature discontinuation.
💙 The nurse promotes realistic expectations without minimizing the client’s concerns.
❌ Incorrect Answers
❌ Reassure they’ll feel better soon
– Too vague; lacks teaching and may feel dismissive.
❌ Schedule same-day appointment
– Not necessary unless symptoms worsen or suicidal ideation emerges.
❌ Report to provider
– No need yet; this is expected early in treatment.
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This question is from PN NJ Eve Mental Health Exam 2025 which contains 49 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: LPN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: 💎Examplify-PN
- Domain: 🤦🏼♀️ Mental Health-PN
- Answer Choices: 4