Practice Question
A patient with a history of bipolar I disorder is prescribed fluoxetine (Prozac) for a depressive episode. What is the nurse's priority action?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Monitor the patient closely for signs of mania.
Rationale:
♦️ Fluoxetine is an SSRI, and when prescribed to a client with bipolar disorder, it can trigger a manic episode, especially without a mood stabilizer.
♦️ SSRIs increase serotonin, which may disrupt the delicate balance in bipolar I disorder, leading to euphoria, insomnia, or risk-taking behaviors.
♦️ The nurse must monitor for signs such as rapid speech, inflated self-esteem, or excessive activity.
♦️ Preventing manic episodes is critical in maintaining mood stability and safety.
♦️ This makes close observation a priority whenever antidepressants are initiated in bipolar clients.
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This question is from RN ATI Mental Health Exam 3 which contains 51 questions.
More Questions from This Exam
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN ATI Mental Health
- Answer Choices: 4