Final answer:
The statement indicating effective teaching for a patient prescribed phenelzine (Nardil) is understanding the need to adjust their diet to avoid high-tyramine foods like tofu and the importance of monitoring blood pressure regularly. Statements about insulin and other medication interactions are not recommended.
Step-by-step explanation:
Phenelzine (Nardil) is a type of medication known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). It works by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which is involved in breaking down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. This medication is prescribed to treat conditions such as depression but is used less frequently due to concerns over toxicity and significant food and drug interactions.
When a patient effectively understands how to manage their treatment with phenelzine, they would acknowledge the need to adhere to dietary restrictions to avoid hypertensive crises. For instance, they might mention that they need to avoid foods rich in tyramine, such as aged cheeses, cured meats, and certain soy products like tofu. Option b, "I will have to figure out how to get my protein since I'm a vegetarian and can't eat tofu anymore," indicates the patient is aware of the dietary restrictions associated with phenelzine use. This level of understanding demonstrates effective teaching about the medication and its possible interactions.
Additionally, routine monitoring of blood pressure is essential when taking MAOIs due to the risk of hypertensive episodes. Therefore, option d, "I will take my blood pressure regularly," is also indicative of effective patient education. It is important to note that stopping other essential medications, like insulin, is not advised due to a new prescription for an unrelated condition. Moreover, specific medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) must be avoided or managed carefully due to the risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with MAOIs.