A client comes to the emergency department reporting a severe pounding headache in the temples and a stiff neck. The client is flushed and diaphoretic, and the client's pulse is racing. The client states that the client is being treated for depression with an MAOI. Which question by the nurse would be most important to ask at this time?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client is exhibiting signs of a hypertensive crisis, which can occur when a client is receiving MAOI therapy and ingests food or other substances that contain tyramine. Thus, the nurse should ask the client what the client has had to eat or drink. Drug levels are used to monitor tricyclic antidepressants. Asking about chest pain would be appropriate after obtaining information related to what the client has ingested. Herbal remedies can interact with medications, but this information would be obtained after determining whether the client has ingested foods and fluids containing tyramine.

A Client Comes to the Emergency Department Reporting a Severe