Question

An individual on phenelzine (Nardil) experiences severe symptoms after starting a new medication. What does the nurse suspect?

a. The patient is experiencing discontinuation syndrome.
b. The patient is having a hypertensive crisis.
c. The person is experiencing an anxiety attack.
d. The patient is experiencing serotonin syndrome.

Answer 1

The nurse would likely suspect that the individual is experiencing serotonin syndrome after starting a new medication while on phenelzine (Nardil).

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse would likely suspect that the individual is experiencing serotonin syndrome after starting a new medication while on phenelzine (Nardil). Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is an excess of serotonin in the brain. It can be caused by the interaction of multiple drugs that increase serotonin levels in the body, such as the combination of phenelzine with another medication. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can include severe agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, tremors, and sweating.