A nurse is preparing to teach a client about the prescription of lithium (Eskalith) for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A rationale:

Telling the parents that they should not feel guilty might invalidate their emotions and discourage open communication. It's essential to acknowledge their feelings and address them empathetically.

Choice B rationale:

This choice demonstrates therapeutic communication and empathy. It encourages the parents to express their feelings, and the nurse is offering to listen and explore the reasons behind their guilt.

Choice C rationale:

This statement seems confrontational and may discourage the parents from sharing their emotions openly. Asking why they feel guilty immediately might put them on the defensive.

Choice D rationale:

While this statement acknowledges the difficulty of the situation, it ends with a premature reassurance that may not be well-received. The parents need space to discuss their feelings before focusing on the future.

The correct answer is choice A: "You may experience dizziness upon standing while taking this medication."

Choice A rationale:

This choice is the correct answer because haloperidol, an antipsychotic medication, can cause orthostatic hypotension, which leads to dizziness upon standing. Antipsychotic medications often affect blood pressure regulation and can result in a sudden drop in blood pressure when transitioning from sitting or lying down to standing. This explanation provides essential information to the client to help them understand potential side effects and take necessary precautions.

Choice B rationale:

This choice is incorrect. Haloperidol is not indicated for treating symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is primarily used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Providing false information about its indications is not appropriate and may lead to confusion.

Choice C rationale:

This choice is incorrect. Clients should never stop taking antipsychotic medications abruptly without consulting their healthcare provider. Discontinuing such medications can lead to withdrawal effects and a worsening of symptoms. Encouraging the client to stop the medication if side effects are bothersome is not appropriate and could potentially jeopardize their well-being.

Choice D rationale:

This choice is partially correct but not the best answer. While haloperidol can cause excessive salivation (sialorrhea) as a side effect, the primary concern in this situation should be related to orthostatic hypotension and dizziness upon standing. Mentioning excessive salivation would be helpful, but it's secondary to the risk of falls associated with orthostatic hypotension.