Question

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has depression and a new prescription for fluoxetine. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A) I should take fluoxetine with grapefruit juice.
B) I will stop taking my medication if I start feeling better.
C) It may take a few weeks for the full effects of the medication to occur.
D) I can stop taking the medication once my mood stabilizes.

Answer 1

The correct statement indicating the client's understanding of how fluoxetine works is that it may take a few weeks for the full effects to occur. Fluoxetine is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI), and it is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even after feeling better. The correct answer is options C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client's statement that indicates an understanding of the teaching about fluoxetine, a medication used to treat depression, is "C) It may take a few weeks for the full effects of the medication to occur." Fluoxetine is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) which inhibits the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin, causing an increased presence of serotonin in the synapse.

This action can gradually elevate mood, which is beneficial in treating depression. Moreover, it is important to maintain consistent use of the medication even if symptoms improve and not to stop taking it abruptly as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of depression. Grapefruit juice should be avoided as it can interact with the medication and stopping medication once mood stabilizes without consulting a doctor can lead to a recurrence of symptoms.