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Psychopharmacology Assessment Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What is the primary purpose of SSRIs in mental health treatment?✔✔ To increase serotonin levels to improve mood and reduce anxiety
What is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications like haloperidol?✔✔ Extrapyramidal symptoms such as tremors or rigidity
What should a nurse monitor for in a client taking lithium?✔✔ Signs of toxicity such as nausea, tremors, or confusion
What instruction should be given to a client starting an MAOI like phenelzine?✔✔ Avoid foods high in tyramine to prevent hypertensive crisis
What is the black box warning for all antidepressant medications?✔✔ Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents
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What is the therapeutic use of benzodiazepines like lorazepam?✔✔ To reduce anxiety and promote relaxation
Why should clients avoid alcohol while taking benzodiazepines?✔✔ It can cause respiratory depression and excessive sedation
What lab level must be monitored regularly in clients taking valproic acid?✔✔ Liver function tests
What is a priority nursing action when a client begins clozapine?✔✔ Monitor white blood cell count due to risk of agranulocytosis
What is a potential side effect of long-term antipsychotic use?✔✔ Tardive dyskinesia
What client behavior indicates serotonin syndrome?✔✔ Agitation, muscle rigidity, and high fever
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What instruction should be given to a client taking bupropion?✔✔ Do not crush or chew the tablet to avoid seizure risk
What is a common side effect of SSRIs during the first few weeks of use?✔✔ Nausea and insomnia
What is the main reason to taper antidepressants slowly?✔✔ To prevent withdrawal symptoms or discontinuation syndrome
What medication is used as a mood stabilizer and also for seizures?✔✔ Carbamazepine
What symptom may indicate lithium toxicity?✔✔ Coarse hand tremors and slurred speech
What condition is contraindicated for tricyclic antidepressants?✔✔ Cardiac arrhythmias
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