A patient taking phenelzine develops a severe headache, palpitations, and a blood pressure of 210/118 mmHg after eating at a restaurant. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B. Hold the next antidepressant dose and notify the prescriber urgently

  • A. Place the patient in a quiet room and reassess later
  • B. Hold the next antidepressant dose and notify the prescriber urgently
  • C. Encourage the patient to drink water and walk slowly
  • D. Administer the next dose with an antacid

Explanation

This presentation suggests a hypertensive crisis related to an interaction between an MAOI and a tyramine-containing food. The medication should be withheld and urgent medical treatment arranged; waiting or giving another dose could worsen the crisis.

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Psychopharmacology covers the actions, uses, adverse effects, and nursing responsibilities associated with antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, sedatives, and stimulants. It includes extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, serotonin syndrome, lithium toxicity, medication adherence, and monitoring of therapeutic response.

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