A client receiving a first-generation antipsychotic develops symptoms of acute dystonia, including muscle spasms and neck stiffness. Which type of medication should the nurse anticipate administering to manage these side effects?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Beta-blockers

Diphenhydramine

Benzodiazepines

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason: SSRIs are antidepressants used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. They do not address extrapyramidal side effects like acute dystonia, so they would not be useful in this case.

Choice B reason: Beta-blockers are primarily used for cardiovascular conditions and akathisia (a sense of restlessness), but they are not the treatment of choice for acute dystonia.

Choice C reason: Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine with strong anticholinergic properties, is effective in treating acute dystonia by restoring the balance between dopamine and acetylcholine in the basal ganglia. This makes it the correct choice for managing the client’s symptoms.

Choice D reason: Benzodiazepines may help with agitation or anxiety, but they are not first-line treatment for acute dystonic reactions caused by antipsychotic medications.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: While silence may sometimes convey understanding, its primary therapeutic purpose in communication is to allow the patient time to think or reflect, not simply to indicate understanding.

Choice B reason: Prolonged silence may cause withdrawal in some patients, but this is not the guiding principle in therapeutic communication. The focus should be on the value of reflection.

Choice C reason: Silence provides the patient with opportunities for reflection and processing of thoughts and emotions. It encourages deeper expression and supports therapeutic dialogue.

Choice D reason: The nurse is not always responsible for breaking silence. Sometimes allowing the patient to break the silence themselves is more therapeutic and empowering.

A. Explain that weight gain is an expected effect of the medication. B. Instruct the client to stop taking the medication until they can be reevaluated. C. Suggest the provider change to a first-generation antipsychotic. D. Recommend switching to a low-calorie diet and increasing physical activity.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: While weight gain is a common side effect of olanzapine, simply stating this without providing management strategies does not support the client’s health.

Choice B reason: Stopping the medication abruptly without medical guidance risks relapse of psychotic symptoms and is unsafe.

Choice C reason: First-generation antipsychotics have their own significant risks, including extrapyramidal side effects, and are not automatically safer. Medication changes should only be considered if lifestyle modifications fail and under provider supervision.

Choice D reason: Encouraging healthy lifestyle changes like diet modification and exercise helps manage weight gain while maintaining medication adherence, making this the most appropriate intervention.

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A client receiving a first-generation antipsychotic develops symptoms of acute dystonia, including muscle spasms and neck stiffness. Which type of medication should the nurse anticipate administering to manage these side effects?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which principle should guide the nurse in determining the extent of silence to use during patient interview sessions?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with schizophrenia is prescribed olanzapine. During a follow-up visit, the client reports increased appetite and weight gain. Which nursing action is most appropriate to address this concern?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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