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 A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Redirecting the focus back to the patient in a therapeutic and nonjudgmental way ensures the conversation remains centered on the client’s needs. This maintains professional boundaries while being supportive.
Choice B reason: Stating that nurses direct interviews is authoritative and may come across as rigid. It does not encourage patient openness.
Choice C reason: Responding with a prohibition sounds harsh and judgmental. It could damage rapport and shut down communication.
Choice D reason: Asking "why" can make the patient feel defensive, which is not therapeutic. It shifts the focus to justification rather than reflection.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Monitoring after meals reduces opportunities for purging behaviors such as vomiting or excessive exercise, which are common in bulimia nervosa.
Choice B reason: Electrolyte disturbances, particularly hypokalemia, are common due to vomiting and laxative abuse. Ongoing assessment is critical for patient safety.
Choice C reason: Continuing laxative use perpetuates the disorder and poses health risks such as dehydration and bowel damage. This is contraindicated.
Choice D reason: Food diaries are sometimes used in therapy to help patients increase awareness of eating patterns. Outright prohibition may remove a useful therapeutic tool unless misused.
Choice E reason: Patients with bulimia may attempt to conceal evidence of binge eating. Being attentive to hidden or discarded wrappers is an important part of monitoring.
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