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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by alternating periods of depression and mania. While mental health issues can certainly be prevalent among the homeless population, bipolar disorder may not be the most prevalent in this context. Homelessness often exposes individuals to harsh living conditions, which might contribute to mood disturbances, but substance addiction is more commonly associated with this population.
Choice B rationale:
Depression is a significant concern among homeless individuals due to the many challenges they face, but substance addiction is generally more prevalent. Substance abuse often becomes a coping mechanism for dealing with the stressors of homelessness, making it a primary concern in this population.
Choice C rationale:
Substance addiction is a critical mental health issue that is highly prevalent among homeless individuals. The stress, trauma, and lack of stable support systems experienced by the homeless population contribute to a higher risk of substance abuse as a way to cope with their circumstances.
Choice D rationale:
Schizophrenia involves a disconnection from reality, including symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. While schizophrenia can certainly affect homeless individuals, substance addiction remains a more widespread concern due to its association with the challenges of homelessness.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Current rehabilitation for opiate addiction is not typically associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is primarily linked to chronic alcohol abuse and thiamine deficiency.
Choice B rationale:
A personal history of alcohol use disorder is directly associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. This syndrome is caused by thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency, which is commonly seen in individuals who have a history of heavy and chronic alcohol consumption.
Choice C rationale:
Undergoing current treatment for HIV is not a typical factor associated with the development of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. This syndrome's primary cause is thiamine deficiency resulting from alcohol misuse.
Choice D rationale:
Family history of Alzheimer's disease is not a characteristic linked to Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. These two conditions have different etiologies and clinical presentations. Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is caused by thiamine deficiency, while Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder.
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