Question

A patient diagnosed with depression begins selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant therapy. The nurse should provide information to the patient and family about:
a. restricting sodium intake to 1 gram daily.
b. minimizing exposure to bright sunlight.
c. reporting increased suicidal thoughts.
d. maintaining a tyramine-free diet.
c. reporting increased suicidal thoughts.

Answer 1

c. reporting increased suicidal thoughts.
One of the important pieces of information that the nurse should provide to a patient and their family when starting SSRI antidepressant therapy is the potential for increased suicidal thoughts, especially in the initial stages of treatment. It is essential for both the patient and the family to be aware of this potential side effect so that appropriate interventions can be implemented if necessary. The other options are not directly related to SSRI antidepressant therapy