Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 90%
Simulated
A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new prescription for paroxetine. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor for which of the following adverse effects?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Drowsiness. Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety. Drowsiness is a common side effect of paroxetine due to its sedative properties. Clients should be instructed to monitor for drowsiness as it can affect their daily activities and driving. Tinnitus (B), peripheral edema (C), and alopecia (D) are not commonly associated with paroxetine use. Tinnitus is more commonly associated with ototoxic medications, peripheral edema may be seen with calcium channel blockers, and alopecia is not a typical side effect of SSRIs.