An older client has recently been prescribed sertraline (Zoloft).The client's spouse is taking paroxetine (Paxil).A nurse assesses that the client is experiencing restlessness,tachycardia,diaphoresis,and tremors.Which complication should a nurse suspect,and why?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rationale: The nurse should suspect that the client is suffering from serotonin syndrome; possibly caused by ingesting two different SSRI's (sertraline and paroxetine).Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include confusion,agitation,tachycardia,hypertension,nausea,abdominal pain,myoclonus,muscle rigidity,fever,sweating,and tremor.

An Older Client Has Recently Been Prescribed Sertraline (Zoloft)