Question

A nurse is assessing a client who has an elevated blood pressure, headache, and is sweating. The client recently started taking an MAOI. The nurse should question the client regarding the consumption of which of the following foods?

1) Foods high in tyramine
2) Foods high in vitamin C
3) Foods high in calcium
4) Foods high in fiber

Answer 1

When taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), consumption of high-tyramine foods like aged cheeses and cured meats should be avoided, as they can cause a hypertensive crisis leading to elevated blood pressure and associated symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse assessing a client who has an elevated blood pressure, headache, and is sweating, and who has recently started taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), should question the client about the consumption of foods high in tyramine. Foods high in tyramine, such as aged cheeses, cured meats, and certain fermented foods, can cause a hypertensive crisis when consumed by someone taking an MAOI.

This is because MAOIs block the breakdown of tyramine, leading to its accumulation, which can result in dangerously high blood pressure. Thus, it is crucial for individuals taking MAOIs to adhere to a diet that avoids high-tyramine foods to prevent these severe side effects.