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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Praying and using relaxation techniques when experiencing rapid breathing are effective stress management strategies. These techniques help manage the body's stress response and promote relaxation.
Choice B rationale:
Journaling is a constructive way to manage stress, especially when verbal expression is difficult. It allows individuals to reflect on their thoughts and emotions, leading to a sense of relief.
Choice C rationale:
"Fixing a pot of coffee" when anxious is the least effective technique mentioned. Consuming large amounts of caffeine can exacerbate anxiety symptoms by increasing heart rate and contributing to a sense of restlessness and nervousness.
Choice D rationale:
Engaging in physical exercise when experiencing tension in the neck is a productive strategy. Exercise promotes the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters and stress reducers.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C: "I'm hearing that you are concerned that it might turn out that you have cancer."
Choice A rationale:
Dismissing the client's concerns and saying there's no reason to worry is not empathetic. It invalidates the client's feelings and does not address their anxiety.
Choice B rationale:
While discussing concerns with the provider is important, it's not the most therapeutic initial response. The nurse should engage with the client's feelings before suggesting actions.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct choice. Reflecting the client's concerns back to them shows empathy and encourages them to express their feelings. This approach opens up communication and allows the nurse to provide support.
Choice D rationale:
Asking the client why they think they might have cancer could come across as confrontational and dismissive. The focus should be on understanding their feelings rather than challenging their thoughts.
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