A nurse is performing an admission assessment on a client who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a negative symptom?

Choice A rationale:

Sweating is not an adverse effect commonly associated with buspirone (Buspar). While some side effects like dizziness, nausea, and headache might occur, sweating is not typically reported as a significant adverse effect of this medication.

Choice B rationale:

Decreased appetite is a potential adverse effect of buspirone (Buspar). However, it is not the most concerning in this context. Anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder can lead to appetite changes, and while this should be monitored, it is not a priority compared to more severe adverse effects.

Choice C rationale:

Discolored urine is not a common adverse effect of buspirone (Buspar). Buspirone is primarily used to treat anxiety and does not usually cause changes in urine color. This effect is unrelated to the medication and likely has a different underlying cause.

Choice D rationale:

Hallucinations are a concerning adverse effect that should be reported to the provider. Hallucinations are not a typical side effect of buspirone and might indicate a more serious issue or an interaction with other medications. Reporting this symptom promptly is crucial to ensuring the client's safety and well-being.

The correct answer is choice D: "I haven't gotten my period yet, and all my friends have theirs."

Choice D rationale:

This comment should be the nurse's priority to address because it raises concerns about the adolescent's sexual development and reproductive health. A delay in the onset of menstruation might indicate underlying medical issues, and addressing this topic can provide reassurance and information about normal variations in puberty. It also demonstrates the nurse's commitment to addressing the adolescent's physical well-being.

Choice A rationale:

While concerns about physical appearance are valid, in the context of an annual health-screening visit, addressing potential medical issues takes precedence. While the nurse can provide guidance on skincare and self-esteem, these topics can be discussed after addressing the primary health concern.

Choice B rationale:

Social interactions are important for adolescents, but the comment about not being liked by peers does not present an immediate health concern. This issue may be better addressed in a broader discussion about the adolescent's emotions and social well-being.

Choice C rationale:

Feeling treated like a baby by parents is a common sentiment during adolescence. While it is valuable to acknowledge and discuss these feelings, they are not the priority in this context, where the nurse should focus on physical health and development.