A charge nurse is instructing a newly licensed nurse about mental health disorders. Which of the following statements by the nurse indicates an understanding of mental health disorders?

A. Risperidone (Risperdal):

Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic and generally has a lower propensity for causing anticholinergic side effects compared to typical antipsychotics.

B. Lithium (Lithobid):

Lithium is a mood stabilizer used primarily for bipolar disorder and does not typically cause anticholinergic side effects.

C. Buspirone (Buspar):

Buspirone is an anxiolytic medication and does not have significant anticholinergic properties. It tends to have fewer side effects compared to other medications used for anxiety.

D. Fluphenazine (Prolixin):

Fluphenazine is a typical antipsychotic medication and belongs to the phenothiazine class, which is known to have notable anticholinergic effects. These effects can include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, urinary retention, and cognitive impairment.

A. Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists focus primarily on medical and pharmacological interventions for mental illnesses. While they play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, they typically do not have the expertise in housing assistance or social services.

B. Behavioral therapist: Behavioral therapists focus on psychotherapeutic interventions to address and modify behavior. They are not typically involved in addressing social determinants of health, such as housing.

C. Social worker: Social workers are specifically trained to address social issues, including housing. They work with clients to assess their social needs, connect them with resources, and advocate for their well-being. In this case, a social worker would be instrumental in helping the client find housing resources and support.

D. Psychologist: Psychologists primarily focus on psychological assessments, therapy, and interventions. Like psychiatrists, their expertise is more centered around mental health treatment rather than addressing the social determinants of health such as housing.