A nurse is educating a client starting on risperidone. Which of the following statements best explains the unique pharmacological action of second-generation antipsychotics compared to first-generation antipsychotics?

They enhance dopamine transmission to improve cognitive function in schizophrenia.

They block dopamine and serotonin receptors, reducing extrapyramidal side effects.

They primarily block dopamine D2 receptors, leading to high rates of extrapyramidal symptoms.

They selectively block only serotonin receptors, improving mood without affecting dopamine.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Enhancing dopamine transmission is not the mechanism of antipsychotics; excessive dopamine is implicated in schizophrenia’s positive symptoms, so reducing—not enhancing—dopamine activity is key.

Choice B reason: Blocking both dopamine and serotonin receptors is characteristic of second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics. This dual action reduces extrapyramidal side effects while still targeting positive and negative symptoms.

Choice C reason: First-generation antipsychotics primarily block dopamine D2 receptors, which increases the risk for extrapyramidal side effects such as dystonia and parkinsonism.

Choice D reason: Selective serotonin receptor blockade is not the defining mechanism of second-generation antipsychotics. These medications act on both dopamine and serotonin systems.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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.

A. Stores long-term memories and emotional responses. B. Controls voluntary muscle movements and reflexes. C. Processes sensory input from the environment and initiates motor responses. D. Regulates homeostasis.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Long-term memory and emotional responses are primarily associated with the limbic system, particularly the hippocampus and amygdala, not the hypothalamus.

Choice B reason: Voluntary muscle control and reflexes are coordinated by the motor cortex and spinal cord, not the hypothalamus.

Choice C reason: Processing sensory input and initiating motor responses are functions of the thalamus and cerebral cortex. The hypothalamus is not directly responsible for this role.

Choice D reason: The hypothalamus regulates homeostasis, including body temperature, thirst, fluid balance, circadian rhythms, and hormone release. A tumor compressing this area explains the patient’s symptoms.

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A nurse is educating a client starting on risperidone. Which of the following statements best explains the unique pharmacological action of second-generation antipsychotics compared to first-generation antipsychotics?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A patient with a tumor compressing the hypothalamus presents with fluctuating body temperature, excessive thirst, frequent urination, and disrupted sleep-wake cycles. Which of the following best explains the role of the hypothalamus related to these symptoms?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A client in the psychiatric unit is experiencing severe anxiety—they are trembling, pacing, and saying, "I can’t think straight. I feel like something terrible is going to happen." Which of the following is the most therapeutic response by the nurse?

The nurse assigned to care for the client with a diagnosis of histrionic personality disorder expects to observe which characteristics and behaviors?

A recently widowed client becomes tearful at a routine clinic visit and states, "I just can’t get over my spouse’s death." Which of the following by the nurse are appropriate? (Select all that apply.)

A client charged with assault pleads not guilty by reason of insanity under the Durham Rule. Which statement best reflects the criteria used in this legal standard?

At the first meeting of a group at a daycare center for older adults, the nurse asks one of the members what kinds of things the client would like to do with the group. The older adult shrugs and says, "You tell me. You're the leader." What would be the best response for the nurse to make?

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the parietal lobe of the brain?

A nurse is assessing a client diagnosed with schizophrenia who is exhibiting positive symptoms. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)

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?