Questions: A nurse is caring for a client who was prescribed an antidepressant based on its ability to prevent the reuptake of neurotransmitters. The nurse should identify that which of the following terms describes why this medication was prescribed for the client? Pharmacologic action Chemical stability Route Adverse effects

The answer is the first one: Pharmacologic action.

Explanation for each option:

1. Pharmacologic action: This term refers to the mechanism by which a drug produces its effects in the body. In this case, the antidepressant was prescribed because it prevents the reuptake of neurotransmitters, which is a specific pharmacologic action. This action increases the availability of neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.

2. Chemical stability: This term refers to the ability of a drug to maintain its chemical integrity and potency over time. It is not related to the reason why the antidepressant was prescribed, as it does not describe the mechanism of action or therapeutic effect of the medication.

3. Route: This term refers to the method by which a drug is administered to the body (e.g., oral, intravenous, etc.). While important for drug administration, it does not describe the reason for prescribing the medication based on its mechanism of action.

4. Adverse effects: This term refers to the unwanted or harmful effects that a drug may cause. While important to consider when prescribing medication, adverse effects do not describe the therapeutic reason for prescribing the antidepressant.

In summary, the term "pharmacologic action" best describes why the antidepressant was prescribed, as it relates to the drug's mechanism of preventing neurotransmitter reuptake.