Question

a nurse is reinforcing teaching to a client who has major depressive disorder and a new prescription for citalopram. which of the following statements by the client demonstrates an understanding of the teaching? \i will avoid eating cheese or smoked meats while taking this medication.\ \i will need to take this medication for at least 4 months after my symptoms go away.\ \i can expect to feel better after taking this medication for 3 or 4 days.\ \this medication will decrease nervousness and anxiety.\

Explanation:

Citalopram is a selective - serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Clients should take SSRIs for at least 4 - 6 months after symptoms resolve to prevent relapse. Avoiding tyramine - rich foods like cheese and smoked meats is for monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), not SSRIs. SSRIs may take 2 - 4 weeks to have an effect, not 3 - 4 days. Citalopram is mainly for depression, not primarily for decreasing nervousness and anxiety (though it may have some secondary effects).

Answer:

"I will need to take this medication for at least 4 months after my symptoms go away."