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 D
Explanation
A. “Taking the medication on an empty stomach will decrease your stomach upset."This is incorrect because taking chlorpromazine on an empty stomach can actually increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and upset. It’s generally recommended to take medications that can irritate the stomach lining with food or milk to help buffer the stomach.
B. “Lie down for 30 minutes after each dose to help prevent stomach upset.”This is not a recommended practice for preventing stomach upset. In fact, lying down immediately after taking medication can increase the risk of esophageal irritation and reflux, especially with certain medications.
C. “Talk to your provider about decreasing your dose of medication.”While discussing medication concerns with a healthcare provider is always a good idea, this response does not directly address the immediate issue of stomach upset. The provider might adjust the dose if necessary, but the primary recommendation for reducing stomach upset would be to take the medication with milk.
D. “Drink a glass of milk with each dose of your medication.”Drinking milk with chlorpromazine can help reduce stomach upset by buffering the stomach lining and reducing irritation. This is a common recommendation for medications that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Tactile hallucination: Incorrect
Tactile hallucinations involve false sensations of touch, such as feeling something on the skin that isn't there. While these hallucinations can be distressing, they are not typically considered a priority over other types of hallucinations, especially those that might pose more immediate risks.
B. Command hallucination: Correct
Command hallucinations involve hearing voices that command the individual to take specific actions, often harmful ones. These types of hallucinations are considered a significant priority because they can lead to dangerous behaviors, self-harm, or harm to others. Addressing and managing command hallucinations promptly is crucial to ensure the safety of the individual and those around them.
C. Visual hallucination: Incorrect
Visual hallucinations involve seeing things that aren't actually present. While these can be distressing, they are generally considered less urgent compared to command hallucinations, which can directly lead to risky actions.
D. Gustatory hallucination: Incorrect
Gustatory hallucinations involve false perceptions of taste. While these can be unsettling, they are not typically considered a priority over command hallucinations, which have a more immediate potential for harm.
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