NCLEX lithium and SSRIs practice questions
This set of flashcards covers essential NCLEX practice questions related to lithium and SSRIs, focusing on nursing priorities, safety, normal values, and nursing actions.
Quiz(36 questions)
1. What do SSRIs primarily inhibit in the brain?
Terms in this Study Set(36)
Lithium Management(18)
What is the therapeutic range for lithium?
The therapeutic range for lithium is typically 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L.
True or False: Lithium is excreted by the kidneys.
True. Lithium is primarily excreted through the kidneys, requiring monitoring of renal function.
Signs of lithium toxicity include:
- Vomiting - Diarrhea - Tremors - Confusion - Ataxia
How often should lithium levels be monitored initially?
Lithium levels should be monitored every 1-2 weeks until stable, then every 3-6 months.
Fill in the blank: Increased sodium intake can __________ lithium levels.
decrease
What are common side effects of lithium?
- Nausea - Weight gain - Polyuria - Thirst - Hand tremors
What nursing action is essential before starting lithium therapy?
Obtain baseline renal function and thyroid function tests.
Cause → Effect: Dehydration can lead to __________.
increased lithium levels, risking toxicity.
True or False: Lithium can interact with NSAIDs.
True. NSAIDs can increase lithium levels by decreasing renal clearance.
What should be monitored alongside lithium therapy?
Thyroid function tests, as lithium can affect thyroid hormone levels.
Normal lithium level range is __________.
0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L
What signs indicate potential lithium toxicity?
- Severe tremors - Confusion - Dizziness - Muscle weakness
How should patients be educated about hydration?
Encourage adequate hydration, especially in hot weather or during exercise.
Comparison: Lithium vs. Depakote
Lithium is effective for mania, while Depakote is often used for mood stabilization.
What should be done if lithium toxicity is suspected?
Stop lithium, monitor vital signs, and consider hospitalization for severe cases.
Fill in the blank: Patients on lithium should avoid __________.
dehydration and diuretics.
What is a critical nursing intervention for lithium therapy?
Educate the patient on recognizing signs of toxicity and the importance of regular lab tests.
What dietary considerations should be made for patients on lithium?
Maintain a consistent sodium intake to avoid fluctuations in lithium levels.
SSRIs Overview(18)
What do SSRIs stand for?
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
True or False: SSRIs primarily increase norepinephrine levels.
False - SSRIs primarily increase serotonin levels.
List two common SSRIs.
- Fluoxetine (Prozac) - Sertraline (Zoloft)
What is the primary use of SSRIs?
Treatment of depression and anxiety disorders.
Fill in the blank: SSRIs prevent the reuptake of __________.
serotonin
What are common side effects of SSRIs?
- Nausea - Insomnia - Sexual dysfunction - Weight gain
How long may it take for SSRIs to show full effect?
4 to 6 weeks
What should be monitored when starting SSRIs?
Watch for worsening depression or suicidal thoughts.
True or False: SSRIs can cause withdrawal symptoms if discontinued abruptly.
True - Tapering is necessary to avoid withdrawal.
What serious condition is associated with SSRIs?
Serotonin syndrome
Cause → Effect: SSRIs increase serotonin levels → What is the outcome?
Improved mood and anxiety reduction.
What dietary consideration is important with SSRIs?
Avoiding St. John's Wort due to interaction risk.
Comparison: SSRIs vs. SNRIs - Which affects serotonin and norepinephrine?
SNRIs affect both; SSRIs only affect serotonin.
What is a key nursing consideration when administering SSRIs?
Assess for changes in mood and behavior.
What neurotransmitter do SSRIs primarily target?
Serotonin
What is the risk of combining SSRIs with MAOIs?
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Define the term 'discontinuation syndrome' related to SSRIs.
Symptoms arising from abrupt SSRI discontinuation, such as dizziness or flu-like symptoms.
What should patients be educated about when starting SSRIs?
Importance of adherence and potential side effects.
Questions in this Study Set(36)
1. What do SSRIs primarily inhibit in the brain?
2. What is the primary indication for lithium therapy in patients?
3. Which of the following is NOT a common side effect of SSRIs?
4. True or False: Lithium can cause hypothyroidism.
5. What is the brand name of the SSRI fluoxetine?
6. What should be the first nursing action if a patient reports severe nausea and diarrhea while on lithium?
7. What is the main therapeutic use of SSRIs?
8. Which of the following is NOT a common side effect of lithium?
9. How long should a patient expect to wait to see the full effects of SSRIs?
10. Fill in the blank: Patients on lithium should avoid __________ to prevent toxicity.
11. Which of the following is a serious condition associated with SSRIs?
12. What is the recommended time frame for monitoring lithium levels after initiating therapy?
13. True or False: SSRIs can be discontinued abruptly without consequences.
14. Which symptom is most indicative of lithium toxicity?
15. Which of the following SSRIs is also known as Zoloft?
16. What dietary instruction is important for patients taking lithium?
17. What neurotransmitter is primarily affected by SSRIs?
18. True or False: NSAIDs can increase lithium levels in the body.
19. What should a nurse monitor for when a patient starts on SSRIs?
20. Which laboratory test should be monitored regularly in patients on lithium?
21. Which herbal supplement should be avoided when taking SSRIs due to interaction risk?
22. What is a common consequence of rapid changes in sodium intake for a patient on lithium?
23. What is discontinuation syndrome related to SSRIs?
24. Which medication class can potentially interact with lithium?
25. Which of the following describes the difference between SSRIs and SNRIs?
26. What action should a nurse take when a patient reports excessive thirst while on lithium?
27. What could be a potential effect of SSRIs on mood?
28. Fill in the blank: Increased sweating can lead to __________ for a patient on lithium.
29. Which of the following actions is crucial when teaching a patient about starting SSRIs?
30. What is the significance of obtaining baseline renal function tests before starting lithium?
31. Which SSRI is also known by the brand name Lexapro?
32. Which of the following is a potential consequence of untreated lithium toxicity?
33. What should a nurse educate a patient about when starting SSRIs?
34. What is the recommended action if a patient on lithium experiences confusion and ataxia?
35. Which of the following statements about the effects of SSRIs is true?
36. What effect does dehydration have on lithium levels in patients taking the medication?
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