A patient who has started fluoxetine says, “I have more energy now, but I still feel hopeless and I am thinking about harming myself.” What is the nurse's priority action?
Correct answer: B. Assess the suicide plan and provide immediate safety precautions
- A. Leave the patient alone to promote independent coping
- B. Assess the suicide plan and provide immediate safety precautions
- C. Explain that suicidal thoughts are expected until treatment ends
- D. Suggest stopping fluoxetine without discussing it with the prescriber
Explanation
Energy may improve before depressed mood and suicidal thinking improve, increasing the risk of self-harm early in antidepressant treatment. The nurse must assess intent, plan, means, and immediate safety, then arrange urgent psychiatric support. The medicine should not be stopped suddenly or changed without the prescriber.
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About Psychopharmacology
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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