A client was recently admitted to the inpatient unit after a suicide attempt and has not responded to SSRIs or tricyclic antidepressants. The client asks the nurse, "I heard about monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Why can't they be added to what I am on now? Wouldn't adding one help?" Which is the appropriate nursing response?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

MAOIs can lead to a life-threatening condition called hypertensive crisis if combined with many other medications, including SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants. It is important for the nurse to educate the client about the potential risks and to work with the healthcare provider to find a different treatment option. ECT may be an option in some cases, but it is not necessarily the best option for every client. Answers A and C are incorrect because they do not address the potential risks of combining MAOIs with other medications. Answer D is partially correct, but it does not provide the necessary information about the risks of combining these medications.

A Client Was Recently Admitted to the Inpatient Unit After