A nurse is caring for a client who has severe manifestations of schizophrenia and is medicated PRN for agitation with haloperidol. The nurse should assess the client for which of the following adverse effects?
Bleeding
Cataracts
Dysrhythmias
Pancreatitis
The Correct Answer is C
A. Bleeding:
Explanation: Bleeding is not a common adverse effect of haloperidol, which is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia. Haloperidol primarily works on the central nervous system and is not known to directly cause bleeding issues.
B. Cataracts:
Explanation: Cataracts are not a common adverse effect of haloperidol either. While long-term use of some antipsychotic medications can lead to metabolic and endocrine disturbances, which might indirectly impact eye health, cataracts are not a direct and immediate concern with haloperidol use.
C. Dysrhythmias:
Explanation: Correct Answer. Haloperidol has the potential to cause cardiac-related adverse effects, including dysrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms). This is a particular concern in individuals who are predisposed to heart conditions or have other risk factors. The medication can prolong the QT interval, which is a measure of the time it takes for the heart's electrical system to recharge between beats. Prolonged QT interval can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.
D. Pancreatitis:
Explanation: Pancreatitis is not a common adverse effect of haloperidol. Pancreatitis typically involves inflammation of the pancreas and can be caused by various factors such as gallstones, alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Haloperidol is not known to directly cause inflammation of the pancreas.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Gabapentin and phenytoin are not directly associated with causing vitamin B deficiencies. However, certain antiseizure medications could potentially affect nutrient absorption over time.
B) A client who has chronic alcohol use disorder.
Explanation:
Chronic alcohol use disorder can lead to a deficiency in several B vitamins, particularly vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B9 (folate), and vitamin B12 (cobalamin). Alcohol interferes with the absorption and utilization of these vitamins in the body, and individuals with alcohol use disorder are often at risk for malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies.
C) A client who takes heparin to prevent deep vein thrombosis:
Heparin is an anticoagulant and does not directly impact the absorption or utilization of vitamin B.
D) A client who has asthma:
Asthma itself does not significantly increase the risk of vitamin B deficiencies. Vitamin B deficiencies are more commonly associated with factors like malnutrition, certain medical conditions, or medications that impact absorption, as seen in chronic alcohol use disorder.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client has begun playing basketball with several other clients during the past month.
Engaging in activities and social interactions can actually be a positive sign, as it suggests involvement and connection with others, which can be protective against suicide.
B. The client identifies with problems expressed by other clients.
Identifying with others' problems may indicate empathy, but it is not necessarily indicative of suicide risk on its own.
C. The client's behavior has become impulsive in the past few weeks.
Explanation: Impulsivity can be a significant risk factor for suicide. A sudden increase in impulsive behavior might indicate that the client is not thinking clearly and is acting without considering the potential consequences. Impulsivity can lead to actions that are harmful or dangerous, including suicidal behaviors.
D. The client states she wants to go home to be with her children and partner.
Expressing a desire to be with loved ones is generally not an indicator of suicide risk. In fact, having a strong support system can be protective against suicidal thoughts.
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