What is the best response by the nurse when a client is prescribed both amoxapine and phenelzine?

When a client is prescribed both amoxapine, a tricyclic antidepressant, and phenelzine, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), it raises significant safety concerns due to the risk of potentially dangerous interactions, particularly hypertensive crisis. MAOIs like phenelzine can interact with a variety of medications, including certain antidepressants, and combining them could lead to serious side effects.

The most prudent action for the nurse would be to question the prescription and withhold the medication. This decision prioritizes patient safety and reflects a thorough understanding of pharmacological interactions. A nurse's responsibility includes advocating for the client's well-being by ensuring that prescribed medications do not pose a risk due to their interactions.

Considering the other response options, asking about allergies to feathers does not pertain to the cardiac or neurological risks associated with the medications in question. Withholding the medication until liver enzymes are drawn is not applicable, as neither amoxapine nor phenelzine is primarily indicated for liver toxicity monitoring in this context. Additionally, the suggestion to remind the client to avoid milk products with phenelzine is irrelevant since the primary dietary considerations involve tyramine-rich foods, which can provoke hypertensive crises when combined with MAOIs