A client diagnosed with schizophrenia, who has been taking antipsychotic medication for the last 5 months, presents in an emergency department (ED) with uncontrollable tongue movements, stiff neck, and difficulty swallowing. The nurse would expect the physician to recognize which condition and implement which treatment?
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medications
Agranulocytosis treated by administration of clozapine (Clozaril)
Tardive dyskinesia treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medication
Headache treated by administration of Hydrochlorothiazide
The Correct Answer is C
A. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medications: The symptoms described (uncontrollable tongue movements, stiff neck, difficulty swallowing) are more indicative of tardive dyskinesia than neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is characterized by hyperthermia, autonomic dysregulation, altered mental status, and generalized muscle rigidity. Treatment involves discontinuing antipsychotic medications and supportive care.
B. Agranulocytosis treated by administration of clozapine (Clozaril): Agranulocytosis is a rare but serious side effect of clozapine, not a treatment for the symptoms described. The symptoms presented are more consistent with tardive dyskinesia.
C. Tardive dyskinesia treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medication: This is the correct answer. Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary and abnormal movements, including tongue protrusion and facial grimacing. It can result from long-term use of antipsychotic medications, and discontinuing or reducing the dose of the antipsychotic is a primary intervention.
D. Headache treated by administration of Hydrochlorothiazide: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic used to treat conditions like high blood pressure and edema, not headache or the symptoms described, which are more indicative of tardive dyskinesia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "This therapy will increase the client's motivation to gain weight": Behavior modification focuses on changing specific behaviors through reinforcement or consequences. While motivation may be a component, the primary goal of behavior modification is to address and modify specific behaviors, such as eating habits, rather than solely relying on motivation.
B. "This therapy will provide the client with control over behavioral choices": Anorexia nervosa often involves issues of control, and behavior modification can empower the individual to regain control over their eating behaviors in a structured and supportive manner. It involves setting goals, reinforcing positive behaviors, and providing a sense of control within the therapeutic framework.
C. "This therapy will reward the client for perfectionist achievement": While anorexia nervosa is associated with perfectionism, rewarding for perfectionist achievement may inadvertently reinforce unhealthy behaviors. Behavior modification aims to promote positive behaviors related to health and well-being rather than reinforcing perfectionism.
D. "This therapy will protect the client from parental overindulgence": Behavior modification is not primarily focused on protecting the client from external factors like parental overindulgence. Instead, it aims to modify specific behaviors through positive reinforcement or consequences.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Priority. The patient is exhibiting severe depression, weight loss, and expressing hopelessness, which are all indicators of an increased risk for suicide. Assessing and addressing the risk for suicide is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of the patient.
B. Incorrect. While the patient may be at risk for injury due to factors such as poor nutrition and potential self-harm, the immediate concern in this case is the risk for suicide, given the patient's severe depression and expressed hopelessness.
C. Incorrect. Powerlessness may be a relevant nursing diagnosis for individuals experiencing depression, but the immediate concern in this case is the risk for suicide. Addressing the patient's sense of powerlessness can be part of the broader care plan, but it's not the priority.
D. Incorrect. While the patient has experienced significant weight loss, the priority at this time is addressing the risk for suicide. Once the immediate safety concern is addressed, nutritional concerns can be addressed as part of the overall care plan.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today