Psychopharmacology for Psychiatric Nurses Flashcards

Which medication is FDA-approved for the treatment of opioid use disorder by blocking opioid receptors?

Answer: Naltrexone (Vivitrol)

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist FDA-approved for treating opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder by blocking the euphoric effects of opioids.

A patient on an SSRI develops agitation, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, and muscle rigidity. Which condition should the nurse suspect?

Answer: Serotonin syndrome

The combination of agitation, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, and rigidity is the classic triad of serotonin syndrome, a dangerous reaction to serotonergic drugs.

Which mood stabilizer requires monitoring of serum levels and is associated with teratogenic risk including neural tube defects?

Answer: Valproate (Depakote)

Valproate is associated with neural tube defects and requires serum level monitoring; it is contraindicated in pregnancy due to high teratogenic risk.

Which medication is used as a 'prn' (as-needed) oral intervention for acute agitation in psychiatric inpatient settings?

Answer: Lorazepam (Ativan)

Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, is commonly administered on a PRN basis for acute agitation in inpatient psychiatric settings due to its rapid onset.

A patient taking an atypical antipsychotic gains 15 pounds and develops hyperglycemia. These findings are characteristic of which side effect syndrome?

Answer: Metabolic syndrome

Atypical antipsychotics are associated with metabolic syndrome, which includes weight gain, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and increased cardiovascular risk.

Which patient teaching point is most important for a patient starting bupropion (Wellbutrin)?

Answer: Report any seizures immediately, as bupropion lowers the seizure threshold

Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, making seizure risk a critical safety teaching point; dose-related seizure risk increases at higher doses.