Question

A client is receiving a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). What does the nurse teach the client?

1) It is necessary to avoid the sun.
2) Drowsiness is an expected side effect of this medication.
3) The therapeutic and toxic levels of the drug are very close.
4) Many prescribed and over-the-counter drugs cannot be taken with this medication.

Answer 1

The nurse should teach the client to avoid certain foods and beverages, be cautious about drug interactions, and follow the prescribed dosage of the MAOI medication.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client is receiving a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), the nurse should teach the client several important things. First, it is necessary to avoid certain foods and beverages that contain high levels of tyramine, as these can cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure. Second, the client should be aware that many prescribed and over-the-counter drugs cannot be taken with MAOIs, as they can interact and cause serious side effects. Lastly, the nurse should inform the client that the therapeutic and toxic levels of the MAOI drug are very close, so it is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed and avoid increasing the dosage without medical supervision.