ATI BoardVitals NCLEX RN 2026
75. Question
A nurse is educating a client who has been newly prescribed amitriptyline. Which instructions
should the nurse include to help minimize anticholinergic effects of the medication?
(Select all that apply.)
Correct Answers
✅ A. Void just before taking the medication.
✅ C. Wear sunglasses when you are outside.
✅ E. Increase your fiber intake.
Explanation
Amitriptyline has anticholinergic effects, which can cause:
• Urinary retention → void before taking the medication
• Photophobia/blurred vision → wear sunglasses outdoors
• Constipation → increase fiber intake
❌ B. Increase dietary sodium — not related to anticholinergic effects
❌ D. Change positions slowly — relates to orthostatic hypotension, not anticholinergic effects
75. Question
A nurse is educating a client who has been newly prescribed amitriptyline. Which instructions
should the nurse include to help minimize anticholinergic effects of the medication?
(Select all that apply.)
Correct Answers
✅ A. Void just before taking the medication.
✅ C. Wear sunglasses when you are outside.
✅ E. Increase your fiber intake.
Explanation
Amitriptyline has anticholinergic effects, which can cause:
• Urinary retention → void before taking the medication
• Photophobia/blurred vision → wear sunglasses outdoors
• Constipation → increase fiber intake
❌ B. Increase dietary sodium — not related to anticholinergic effects
❌ D. Change positions slowly — relates to orthostatic hypotension, not anticholinergic effects
