Question

The physician has ordered Zoloft (sertraline) \(50 \mathrm{mg}\) daily for a client with depression. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the medication's side effects? A. "I need to avoid certain foods and drinks to prevent an increase in blood pressure." B. "I will schedule an appointment each month to have my blood level checked." C. "I will use hard candy or gum to keep my mouth from feeling too dry." D. "I will need to take my medicine before meals to improve its effect."

Short answer

A. "I need to avoid certain foods and drinks to prevent an increase in blood pressure." B. "I will schedule an appointment each month to have my blood level checked." C. "I will use hard candy or gum to keep my mouth from feeling too dry." D. "I will need to take my medicine before meals to improve its effect." Answer: C. "I will use hard candy or gum to keep my mouth from feeling too dry."

Step-by-step solution

Research the side effects of Zoloft (sertraline)

The side effects of Zoloft (sertraline) include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, loss of appetite, increased sweating, diarrhea, upset stomach, and trouble sleeping. It is important to identify these side effects to select the correct statement.

Analyze the four statements

A. "I need to avoid certain foods and drinks to prevent an increase in blood pressure." This statement refers to medications or situations that can cause an increase in blood pressure, such as interacting with MAO inhibitors and certain foods that contain tyramine. However, Zoloft (sertraline) does not have this specific side effect. B. "I will schedule an appointment each month to have my blood level checked." This statement could be correct for medications that require regular blood tests to monitor their effects. However, Zoloft (sertraline) does not require such monitoring. C. "I will use hard candy or gum to keep my mouth from feeling too dry." This statement refers to dealing with the dry mouth side effect, which is one of the common side effects of Zoloft (sertraline). D. "I will need to take my medicine before meals to improve its effect." This statement suggests that the client believes taking the medicine before meals would improve its effect. However, Zoloft (sertraline) does not have specific timing guidelines for taking it before or after meals.

Choose the correct statement

Based on the analysis of the four statements, the correct statement that indicates the client's understanding of the medication's side effects is: C. "I will use hard candy or gum to keep my mouth from feeling too dry."

Key concepts

Zoloft (sertraline) education

When it comes to understanding the medication Zoloft (sertraline), education is a pivotal part for both healthcare providers and patients to ensure its effective and safe usage. Sertraline, commonly known by the brand name Zoloft, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) prescribed primarily for depression, but also used in the treatment of anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and others.

Sertraline works by balancing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is thought to have good effects on mood, emotion and anxiety. However, patients should be well aware of its possible side effects, which can include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, loss of appetite, and increases in sweating, among others.

Patients are also encouraged to discuss their full medical history with their healthcare provider before starting sertraline, as certain conditions and concomitant medications can influence its efficacy and safety. This medication does not typically require diet restrictions to prevent blood pressure changes, nor does it necessitate regular blood level checks. It's important for patients to understand the correct administration of sertraline, which does not necessarily have to be taken before meals unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Managing antidepressant side effects

Antidepressant side effects are diverse and can be distressful, but there are strategies to manage them, improving patient comfort and medication adherence. Dry mouth, a common side effect of many antidepressants including Zoloft (sertraline), can be managed through simple remedies such as using hard candy or chewing gum to stimulate saliva production. It is important for nurses and healthcare providers to educate patients on these management strategies.

Other common antidepressant side effects such as nausea may be reduced by taking medication with food, unless otherwise directed. Increased sweating might be managed with the help of antiperspirants or by wearing breathable clothing. For insomnia, patients might be advised to take their antidepressant in the morning if the medication doesn’t interfere with sleep when taken at this time.

During the course of treatment, nurses play a critical role in monitoring the patient's response to medication and in providing strategies to mitigate side effects. Open communication is encouraged, and patients should always feel comfortable discussing any new or worsening symptoms with their healthcare provider.

Nursing pharmacology

Nursing pharmacology is a foundational element of nursing practice, encompassing the study of how drugs affect the body, how the body processes drugs, and the nurse's role in medication management and patient education. A comprehensive understanding of medications like Zoloft (sertraline) is essential, so that nurses can confidently educate patients about their prescriptions.

In the context of nursing pharmacology, nurses must be knowledgeable about the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of medications, potential side effects, drug interactions, and best practices for administration. Education is paramount, emphasizing how to manage side effects and the importance of medication adherence to achieve therapeutic outcomes.

Nurses must maintain an open dialogue with patients, reassuring them about the benefits of the medication while also validating their concerns about side effects. This balanced approach to medication education helps to build trust, encourages adherence, and ensures the best possible care for those receiving treatment.