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?
Explain that weight gain is an expected effect of the medication.
Instruct the client to stop taking the medication until they can be reevaluated.
Suggest the provider change to a first-generation antipsychotic.
Recommend switching to a low-calorie diet and increasing physical activity.
The Correct Answer is D
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Sharing personal loss shifts the focus away from the patient, which is not therapeutic. Self-disclosure in this way can hinder supportive communication.
Choice B reason: Suggesting a grief support group acknowledges the patient’s feelings while offering a constructive coping resource. It validates distress and provides support.
Choice C reason: Leaving the patient when they are emotionally vulnerable conveys abandonment instead of support, which is not therapeutic.
Choice D reason: Normalizing grief as a process that takes time offers reassurance without minimizing the client’s emotions. It helps the patient understand that healing is gradual.
Choice E reason: Encouraging the patient to share coping strategies promotes expression of feelings and helps the nurse assess adaptive versus maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Displacement involves transferring feelings from one object or person to another safer target, which is not occurring here.
Choice B reason: Returning to earlier developmental behaviors, such as holding a childhood toy and speaking like a child during stress, is a clear example of regression.
Choice C reason: Sublimation is channeling unacceptable impulses into constructive activities, which is not shown in this scenario.
Choice D reason: Repression involves unconsciously blocking distressing thoughts or feelings, but in this case the client is acting out stress through childlike behavior.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
