A client with schizophrenia who has a history of paranoid delusions asks the nurse, "Are you giving me something to poison me?" The nurse knows the client is receiving an antipsychotic medication. Applying the ethical principle of veracity, which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

"You’re imagining that. No one is trying to hurt you."

"This is your prescribed antipsychotic medication."

"I can’t discuss what the medication is because it might upset you."

"Don’t worry. This medication is just to help you sleep."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Dismissing the client’s concern as imagination invalidates their feelings and does not uphold honesty, which may worsen paranoia.

Choice B reason: Veracity means truthfulness. Clearly identifying the medication as prescribed treatment provides honest information while supporting trust.

Choice C reason: Withholding information violates both client rights and the ethical principle of veracity. Clients have the right to know what medications they receive.

Choice D reason: Misrepresenting the purpose of the drug undermines trust and is dishonest, which goes against ethical standards.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: This presentation is consistent with neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a rare but life-threatening reaction to antipsychotics characterized by severe muscle rigidity, hyperthermia, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction. Immediate discontinuation of the drug and emergency treatment are required.

Choice B reason: Restlessness and inability to sit still are signs of akathisia, an extrapyramidal side effect of antipsychotics. While distressing and requiring management, it is not life-threatening compared to NMS.

Choice C reason: A flat affect and reduced speech are negative symptoms of schizophrenia and may persist despite treatment. These are concerning for quality of life but do not require urgent medical intervention.

Choice D reason: Mild weight gain is a known side effect of many antipsychotics. It should be monitored and managed with lifestyle modifications but does not represent an immediate threat.

A. Encourage the client to discuss all their worries in detail to process their feelings. B. Provide extensive information about anxiety disorders and treatment options. C. Use a calm, simple, and clear tone, offering brief and direct instructions. D. Use rapid, reassuring statements to quickly calm the client down.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: When anxiety is severe, the client cannot focus or process complex discussions. Asking them to explore worries may overwhelm them further.

Choice B reason: Providing extensive information is inappropriate in crisis moments because the client’s concentration and comprehension are impaired.

Choice C reason: Clear, calm, and brief communication helps reduce overstimulation, provides structure, and reassures the client during high anxiety. This is the most therapeutic choice.

Choice D reason: Rapid statements can escalate the client’s sense of being overwhelmed, increasing anxiety rather than calming it.

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A client with schizophrenia who has a history of paranoid delusions asks the nurse, "Are you giving me something to poison me?" The nurse knows the client is receiving an antipsychotic medication. Applying the ethical principle of veracity, which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client newly prescribed aripiprazole, a third-generation antipsychotic, for the treatment of schizophrenia. Which nursing observation would require the most immediate intervention?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client is exhibiting signs of severe anxiety, including hyperventilation, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating. Which communication approach should the nurse use to effectively support the client during this crisis?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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