A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for chlorpromazine. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the medication is effective?

Choice C rationale:

The client's speech, "Tie a bow. Row the boat. Now I know. Whoa! I see you, yo," is an example of word salad. Word salad is a disorganized mixture of words and phrases that lack coherent meaning and logical connection. It is often observed in severe cases of schizophrenia or other mental health disorders and indicates a significant impairment in thought process and communication. In word salad, words and phrases are randomly juxtaposed, making it difficult to understand the intended message.

Choice A rationale:

Neologisms are newly coined words or phrases that have meaning only to the individual using them. Neologisms are often created by individuals with mental disorders and might not make sense to others. In the given speech, the words and phrases, although disorganized, are not newly coined or invented terms, so neologisms do not apply here. **

• A. Incorrect. Withholding pain medications for 24 hr after the old patch is removed is a harmful action that could cause severe withdrawal symptoms and uncontrolled pain for the client. The nurse should respect the client's right to refuse treatment and explore the reasons for their decision.
• B. Correct. Asking another nurse to witness the disposal of the new patch is a safe and legal action that follows the policies and procedures for handling controlled substances. The nurse should document the disposal of the new patch and report it to the appropriate authority.
• C. Incorrect. Sealing the patches in a plastic bag and placing them in the client's trash basket is an unsafe and illegal action that could lead to diversion, misuse, or accidental exposure of fentanyl to others. The nurse should dispose of the patches in a secure and designated container that prevents access by unauthorized persons.
• D. Incorrect. Sticking the two patches to each other and placing them in the sharps bin is an unsafe and improper action that could cause contamination, injury, or infection to others who handle or dispose of sharps waste. The nurse should dispose of the patches separately and carefully, avoiding contact with their adhesive surfaces.