1. A nurse is caring for an elderly patient who has been

recently diagnosed with depression. Which of the following

psychotropic medications would the nurse anticipate being

prescribed due to its efficacy and reduced risk of adverse

effects in older adults?

a) Fluoxetine (Prozac)

b) Venlafaxine (Effexor)

c) Paroxetine (Paxil)

d) Sertraline (Zoloft)

Answer: d) Sertraline (Zoloft)

Rationale: Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake

inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for depression. It is

often preferred in older adults due to its reduced side effect

profile and lower drug-drug interaction potential compared

to other SSRIs.

2. A 30-year-old female patient with bipolar disorder

presents with manic symptoms. Considering this patient's

gender and reproductive stage, which mood stabilizer

would be most appropriate to avoid negative effects on

fertility and pregnancy?

a) Lithium

b) Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

c) Valproate (Depakote)

d) Lamotrigine (Lamictal)

Answer: d) Lamotrigine (Lamictal)

Rationale: Lamotrigine has demonstrated a lower risk of

reproductive adverse effects and is considered a safe option