A client is prescribed haloperidol for the treatment of symptoms related to schizophrenia. What client statement suggests that the client needs further teaching?

I can stop taking the medication once my hallucinations stop.

I will discuss any use of alcohol with my health care provider before using it with the medication.

I should start seeing improvement of my symptoms within a few days.

I will avoid direct Sun exposure and use sunscreen if I have to be outdoors.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

This statement suggests that the client needs further teaching because haloperidol is a medication that needs to be taken regularly and consistently to prevent relapse of symptoms related to schizophrenia. Stopping the medication abruptly can cause withdrawal effects and worsen the condition.

Choice B is wrong because it shows that the client understands the potential interaction between alcohol and haloperidol, which can increase the risk of sedation, drowsiness, and low blood pressure.

Choice C is wrong because it indicates that the client has realistic expectations about the onset of action of haloperidol, which can take several days or weeks to show improvement of symptoms.

Choice D is wrong because it demonstrates that the client is aware of the possible side effect of photosensitivity caused by haloperidol, which can make the skin more prone to sunburn and damage.

Haloperidol is an antipsychotic drug that works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. It is used to treat symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and disorganized thinking in schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. The normal dosage range for haloperidol is 0.5 to 20 mg per day, depending on the severity of the condition and the response to treatment. Some of the common side effects of haloperidol include extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), such as muscle stiffness, tremors, restlessness, and abnormal movements; neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), which is a rare but serious condition characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic instability; and tardive dyskinesia (TD), which is a chronic movement disorder that involves involuntary movements of the tongue, lips, face, and limbs. Haloperidol can also cause weight gain, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction.

Haloperidol should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, liver disease, seizure disorder, diabetes mellitus, thyroid dysfunction

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

“Have you had thoughts about killing yourself?” This is the best response because it directly assesses the client’s suicidal risk and shows empathy and concern.

The other choices are wrong because:

Choice B. “What can’t you go on anymore?” This is a vague and open-ended question that does not address the client’s immediate safety or emotional state.

Choice C. “Don’t think like that.

It’s not true!” This is a dismissive and invalidating response that does not acknowledge the client’s feelings or offer support.

Choice D. “Have you talked to your doctor about these feelings?” This is a deferring and avoiding response that does not explore the client’s situation or provide any intervention.

A. When the client exhibits physiologic symptoms of pain. B. Prior to painful activities, such as bathing. C. On a regular schedule around the clock. D. Whenever the client requests it.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

On a regular schedule around the clock. This is because when pain is present for more than 12 hours a day, analgesic dosages are best administered around the clock rather than on an as-needed basis.

Choice A is wrong because waiting for the client to exhibit physiologic symptoms of pain may delay the administration of analgesics and cause unnecessary suffering. Physiologic symptoms of pain are not always reliable indicators of pain intensity or quality.

Choice B is wrong because administering analgesics prior to painful activities may not provide adequate pain relief throughout the day. Painful activities may vary depending on the client’s condition and preferences.

Choice D is wrong because relying on the client’s request may not ensure optimal pain management. Some clients may be reluctant to ask for analgesics due to fear of addiction, side effects, or being perceived as weak.

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A client is prescribed haloperidol for the treatment of symptoms related to schizophrenia. What client statement suggests that the client needs further teaching?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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