A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who started taking haloperidol decanoate 125 mg IM 1 month ago. Which of the following statements by the client should the nurse address?

A. Diarrhea is a common symptom of opioid withdrawal. Opioids slow down gastrointestinal motility, so when their use is discontinued, it can lead to increased peristalsis and diarrhea. This occurs due to the rebound effect of the gastrointestinal tract.
B. Opioids typically cause pupil constriction (pinpoint pupils) when they are active in the body. During withdrawal, the opposite occurs, and pupils dilate (mydriasis). However, the question asks about withdrawal symptoms, not effects of opioid use, so this would not be expected in opioid withdrawal.
C. Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not typically associated with opioid withdrawal. Instead, opioid withdrawal can cause tachycardia (rapid heart rate) due to the sympathetic nervous system activation that occurs during withdrawal.
D. Hypokinesis refers to decreased movement or activity, which is not a typical symptom of opioid withdrawal. Instead, opioid withdrawal often presents with symptoms such as restlessness, agitation, and muscle aches, which are indicative of hyperactivity rather than hypokinesis.

A. This statement indicates that the client has abstained from alcohol while on haloperidol decanoate. This is a positive statement and shows compliance with recommendations, as alcohol can interact with medications and affect their effectiveness or cause adverse reactions. There is no immediate concern with this statement.
B. Haloperidol can increase sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). Spending several hours outside gardening in the sun could potentially increase the risk of sunburn or other skin reactions due to photosensitivity. The nurse should address this statement by educating the client about the need to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak sunlight hours.
C. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is generally recommended for clients taking haloperidol, as it can occasionally cause hypotension (low blood pressure) as a side effect. Checking blood pressure once a week is a reasonable frequency, but the nurse should ensure that the client understands the signs and symptoms of hypotension and knows when to seek medical attention if blood pressure readings are abnormal.
D. Chewing sugar-free gum is generally not contraindicated while taking haloperidol. However, if the gum contains caffeine or other stimulants, it could potentially exacerbate certain side effects of the medication, such as tremors or restlessness. The nurse should inquire further about the type of gum being used and educate the client about potential interactions or side effects.