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

The symptoms listed in the question are consistent with serotonin syndrome, which can occur when two different SSRIs are taken together or when the dosage of an SSRI is increased. It is important to distinguish between serotonin syndrome and neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which is a different condition that typically occurs in response to antipsychotic medications. While paroxetine is an SSRI, it is not an MAOI, so choices B and C can be ruled out.

An Older Client Has Recently Been Prescribed Sertraline (Zoloft)