A nurse is providing teaching to a client diagnosed with schizophrenia and is prescribed haloperidol (Haldol). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
"You may experience dizziness upon standing while taking this medication.”
"This medication will decrease your symptoms of OCD.”
"You can stop taking the medication if the side effects are bothersome.”
"This medication may cause excessive salivation.”
The Correct Answer is A
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B: "I am powerless against my addiction to alcohol."
Choice B rationale:
This statement reflects an understanding of one of the fundamental principles of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), which is the acknowledgment of powerlessness over alcohol. The concept of powerlessness is a cornerstone of the 12-step program and encourages individuals to recognize that attempting to control their addiction often leads to negative consequences. This admission is crucial for clients in recovery, as it opens the door to seeking support and relying on the fellowship and guidance of AA.
Choice A rationale:
While identifying triggers for alcoholism is important, this statement does not directly capture the essence of AA's principle. The focus on identifying causes does not fully encompass the concept of powerlessness over the addiction.
Choice C rationale:
Responsibility for one's alcoholism is not a core principle of AA. Instead, the program encourages individuals to take responsibility for their actions and their commitment to recovery, but not for causing their addiction in the first place.
Choice D rationale:
AA is a peer support program that emphasizes personal responsibility and self-accountability. While counseling might be beneficial, the statement implies external responsibility for recovery, which contradicts the self-help nature of AA.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D: "Remain with the client in his room for a while."
Choice D rationale:
This choice is the correct answer because when a client is experiencing panic-level anxiety, their immediate need is for support and reassurance. Staying with the client helps establish a sense of safety and demonstrates the nurse's presence, which can help reduce anxiety. Providing a calming and supportive presence is a therapeutic nursing intervention in this situation.
Choice A rationale:
Medicating the client with a sedative might be appropriate in some cases of severe anxiety, but it should not be the first action taken. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as offering emotional support, should be prioritized before resorting to medication.
Choice B rationale:
Joining a therapy group might be beneficial for the client in the future, but during the acute phase of panic-level anxiety, the client might not be in a state to actively participate and engage in group therapy. Immediate individual attention is necessary.
Choice C rationale:
While suggesting that the client rest in bed could be helpful for relaxation, it might not be sufficient to address the intensity of panic-level anxiety. The client might not be able to rest or calm down without more direct support from the nurse.
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