Question

During the client-teaching session, which instruction should the nurse give to a client receiving the second-generation antidepressant paroxetine (Paxetil)?

1. "Be aware that your vision may become blurred."
2. "Include high-fiber foods in your diet."
3. "Report polyuria to the physician immediately."
4. "Avoid tyramine-rich foods such as red wine."

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the client taking paroxetine to be aware that their vision may become blurred, as it is a common side effect of the medication. Counseling on medication adherence and side effect management is crucial, but avoidance of tyramine-rich foods is not necessary with SSRIs like paroxetine.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the client-teaching session, for a client receiving the second-generation antidepressant paroxetine (Paxil), the nurse should instruct the client to "Be aware that your vision may become blurred." This is because blurred vision is a common side effect of many antidepressants, including paroxetine. Additionally, counseling about the importance of proper medication adherence and discussing any potential side effects they may experience is essential for effective treatment. Unlike some other types of antidepressants, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), paroxetine does not require dietary restrictions relating to tyramine intake, therefore the instruction to "Avoid tyramine-rich foods such as red wine" is not applicable to paroxetine.

High-fiber foods may be recommended to mitigate the side effect of constipation, which is another common side effect of SSRIs like paroxetine. Reporting polyuria (excessive urination) is not a standard instruction for SSRIs, so the suggestion to "Report polyuria to the physician immediately" would not be a priority teaching point specifically for paroxetine.