Final answer:
A nurse should inform a client starting amitriptyline about common adverse effects such as agitation, anxiety, sleep problems, nausea and vomiting, abnormal heart rhythms, low blood pressure, and muscular problems.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse teaching a client starting amitriptyline should include several potential adverse effects. Amitriptyline, which is a tricyclic antidepressant, can have several side effects due to its action on neurotransmitter levels and other physiological systems. While it is not an "as-needed" medication and may take two to three weeks to show mood-elevation in depressed patients, it can cause various side effects.
Common adverse effects to be aware of include agitation, anxiety, sleep problems (such as insomnia), nausea and vomiting, abnormal heart rhythms, low blood pressure, and muscular problems. Some patients may also experience weight gain, fatigue, dizziness, loss of sexual desire, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and difficulty in concentrating and thinking. It is important for clients to be informed of these potential side effects so they can monitor their health and communicate any concerns to their healthcare provider.