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","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Monitoring vital signs throughout the day is essential for a client experiencing mania, but it is not a specific intervention related to managing the manic state. Mania is associated with high energy levels and hyperactivity, which can affect vital signs. However, this intervention does not directly address the core symptoms of mania.
Choice B rationale:
Maintaining an environment with low stimuli is crucial for managing a client experiencing mania. Manic individuals are often highly sensitive to external stimuli, and a low-stimulation environment helps reduce agitation and potential exacerbation of manic behaviors.
Choice C rationale:
Discouraging the client from taking a nap during the day is not a suitable intervention for managing mania. Sleep disturbances are common during manic episodes, and attempting to restrict daytime naps might increase restlessness and agitation.
Choice D rationale:
Weighing the client every 3 to 4 days is not a specific intervention for managing mania. Weight monitoring might be relevant in certain contexts, such as if the client's medication regimen is associated with weight changes, but it does not directly address the manifestations of mania.
Choice E rationale:
Offering nutritional foods to the client every 2 hours is an important intervention for managing mania. Manic individuals often engage in impulsive behaviors, including neglecting self-care such as eating. Providing regular and nutritious meals helps stabilize blood sugar levels and supports the body's energy demands during this hyperactive phase.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace.
Choice A rationale:
Instructing the client to sit down and stop pacing (Choice A) might come across as authoritarian and dismissive of the client's anxiety. It's important to provide a more supportive and empathetic approach.
Choice B rationale:
Having a staff member escort the client to her room (Choice B) might further escalate the client's anxiety. The client may interpret this action as a form of containment or punishment.
Choice C rationale:
Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace (Choice C) is the most appropriate action. This approach acknowledges the client's anxiety and provides a calming presence. Gradually slowing down can help the client naturally transition from pacing to a calmer state.
Choice D rationale:
Allowing the client to pace alone until physically tired (Choice D) might prolong the episode of anxiety. Providing support and engagement is essential in managing the client's distress effectively.
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