.png){kind=logo}
1. A nurse is caring for an elderly patient who has been
recently diagnosed with depression. Which of the following
psychotropic medications would the nurse anticipate being
prescribed due to its efficacy and reduced risk of adverse
effects in older adults?
a) Fluoxetine (Prozac)
b) Venlafaxine (Effexor)
c) Paroxetine (Paxil)
d) Sertraline (Zoloft)
Answer: d) Sertraline (Zoloft)
Rationale: Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake
inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for depression. It is
often preferred in older adults due to its reduced side effect
profile and lower drug-drug interaction potential compared
to other SSRIs.
2. A 30-year-old female patient with bipolar disorder
presents with manic symptoms. Considering this patient's
gender and reproductive stage, which mood stabilizer
would be most appropriate to avoid negative effects on
fertility and pregnancy?
a) Lithium
b) Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
c) Valproate (Depakote)
d) Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
Answer: d) Lamotrigine (Lamictal)
Rationale: Lamotrigine has demonstrated a lower risk of
reproductive adverse effects and is considered a safe optionÂ
.png)