Question

A patient comes to the clinic states that he has had cold symptoms with worsening cough for the past three days but does not know if he can take dextromethorphan (Robitussin). His past medical history includes depression and anxiety. Which of the following should the nurse practitioner inquire about before recommending dextromethorphan (Robitussin)?

a. Has the patient experienced nausea and vomiting?
b. Does the patient take any medication for his depression or anxiety?
c. Does the patient smoke or use a vape pen?
d. Does the patient have GI complaints?

Answer 1

The nurse practitioner should inquire if the patient takes any medication for depression or anxiety before recommending dextromethorphan, as certain antidepressants can interact negatively with this medication.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering whether a patient can take dextromethorphan (Robitussin) for cold symptoms, it is especially important for a healthcare provider to inquire about the patient’s current medication regimen. The most relevant question for the nurse practitioner to ask in this case is: "Does the patient take any medication for his depression or anxiety?" Since certain antidepressants can interact negatively with dextromethorphan, leading to a potentially dangerous condition known as serotonin syndrome, this information is crucial.

Other factors such as nausea and vomiting, smoking habits, or GI complaints, while important in a general health assessment, are not as directly related to potential drug interactions with dextromethorphan.