Nursing Pharmacology · NCLEX-RN

Nursing Pharmacology: Psychiatric Medications

Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers with their black box warnings and key nursing monitoring points.

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What is the black box warning for SSRIs regarding suicidality?
Increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults up to age 24.
How long does it typically take for SSRIs to reach full therapeutic effect?
4 to 6 weeks
What combination commonly triggers serotonin syndrome?
An SSRI taken with an MAOI (or another serotonergic drug)
Serotonin syndrome presents with hyperthermia, agitation, tremor, and ____.
hyperreflexia
What dietary restriction is required for patients taking MAOIs?
Avoid tyramine-rich foods (aged cheese, cured meats, red wine)
What happens if a patient on an MAOI eats tyramine-rich food?
Hypertensive crisis
How long should a patient wait after stopping fluoxetine before starting an MAOI?
About 5 weeks, due to fluoxetine's long half-life
Why are tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) overdoses especially dangerous?
They are cardiotoxic and can cause fatal arrhythmias
Do TCAs carry the same suicidality black box warning as SSRIs?
Yes, increased suicidality risk in children, adolescents, and young adults
What two conditions are contraindications for bupropion?
Seizure disorder and eating disorder
What vital sign should be monitored closely with venlafaxine, an SNRI?
Blood pressure, for risk of hypertension
What is the therapeutic serum range for lithium?
0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L
What are early signs of lithium toxicity?
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fine tremor
What are signs of severe, late-stage lithium toxicity?
Ataxia, confusion, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias
How does low sodium intake affect lithium levels?
It increases the risk of lithium toxicity

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