Question

Multiple-choice question: Angelique has been prescribed the drug paroxietine (Paxil) for depression. The nurse should explain to her that SSRIs may have a side effect of: A. Hypertension B. Gastrointestinal distress C. Rigidity D. Increased sexual desire

Short answer

The purpose of this exercise was to choose the most common side effect of the SSRI drug, Paxil, given several choices. After eliminating the less likely options and comparing the two remaining, the correct answer is: Gastrointestinal distress (Option B).

Step-by-step solution

- Understand the Mechanism of SSRIs

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, or SSRIs, are a class of drugs that are primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps nerve cells communicate and is believed to help regulate mood. Understand that any side-effects associated with these drugs will be a direct or indirect result of this key action.

- Review the Side Effects

Look at the side effects given in the choices provided. It's important to know that common side effects of SSRIs can often include gastrointestinal issues, sexual problems, and in fewer cases, increased blood pressure.

- Eliminate Incorrect Choices

With knowledge of the possible side effects of SSRIs, options can be eliminated. In this case, rigidity (Choice C) and increased sexual desire (Choice D) are not typically associated with SSRIs, in fact SSRIs are more commonly associated with decreased sexual desire, not increased. So these options can be eliminated.

- Choose the Best Answer

Lastly, recall that side effects such as hypertension (high blood pressure), option A, are less common. Gastrointestinal distress, option B is a more common side effect. With that in mind, option B is the most likely correct answer in this exercise.

Key concepts

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, commonly known as SSRIs, are a popular group of medications used to treat mood disorders like depression and anxiety. They function by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter pivotal for mood regulation. When serotonin levels are low, it often correlates with depression, hence boosting them can have a positive effect on mood.

The effectiveness of SSRIs arises from preventing the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin back into the nerve cells. This increases the availability of serotonin in the neuronal synapse, enhancing mood improvement.

SSRI medications include:

• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Paroxetine (Paxil)
• Sertraline (Zoloft)
• Citalopram (Celexa)
• Escitalopram (Lexapro)

Each medication may have specific impacts based on individual patient responses and potential side effects. Understanding these effects is essential for both patients and healthcare professionals in managing therapeutic outcomes effectively.

NCLEX-RN preparation

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN, the licensing examination for registered nurses, involves a comprehensive understanding of a wide range of medical topics, including pharmacology. It's not just about memorizing facts but understanding the application.

Pharmacology questions, such as those about SSRIs, test your ability to apply knowledge about medications, including mechanism of action, common uses, and side effects. To effectively prepare:

• Familiarize yourself with drug classifications and prototype drugs.
• Understand pharmacokinetics and dynamics.
• Review side effects, interactions, and contraindications.

Using practice questions can be highly beneficial, as they provide a clearer insight into the test format. This approach not only helps in retaining information but also boosts confidence and understanding of real-world applications.

Nursing side effect management

Managing side effects of medications is a crucial role of nursing. Particularly with SSRIs, understanding their side effects, such as gastrointestinal distress, is vital to provide holistic patient care.

Nurses should monitor for these side effects and educate patients on managing them effectively:

• Encourage small, frequent meals to combat nausea.
• Suggest dietary modifications or increased fiber intake for bowel issues.
• Advise on slow position changes if dizziness is a concern.

Furthermore, side effect management also involves communicating changes to the healthcare team to adjust medication as needed. This ensures optimal patient wellness and adherence to the treatment plan, minimizing discomfort and enhancing therapeutic outcomes.