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?

"I haven't had a drink of alcohol since I started taking these injections."

"I spend several hours a day outside gardening when it's sunny."

"I check my blood pressure once a week.

"I chew sugar-free gum several times daily."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

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.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Monitoring liver enzymes (AST, ALT) is typically not directly related to lithium therapy. Elevated liver enzymes may indicate liver damage from various causes, such as hepatitis or medication toxicity, but it is not a routine monitoring parameter for lithium.
B. Lithium can decrease the excretion of uric acid, potentially leading to elevated levels. Monitoring uric acid levels helps to detect hyperuricemia, which may contribute to conditions like gout. It's important to monitor this parameter periodically during lithium therapy.
C. ESR is a nonspecific marker of inflammation and is not specifically monitored in relation to lithium therapy. It is used to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers, but it does not directly relate to lithium use.
D. Monitoring serum sodium levels is crucial during lithium therapy because lithium can affect renal function and electrolyte balance, including sodium levels. Hyponatremia is a potential adverse effect of lithium, and regular monitoring helps detect and manage this condition promptly.

A. "The medication may cause ringing in my ears." B. "The medication may cause urinary incontinence." C. "I may be more sensitive to the sun while taking this medication." D. "I may experience a metallic taste while taking this medication."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is not a common side effect of haloperidol. Therefore, this statement does not indicate an accurate understanding of the medication's potential side effects.
B. Urinary incontinence is also not typically associated with haloperidol. Therefore, this statement does not reflect correct knowledge about the medication.
C. Haloperidol can indeed make individuals more sensitive to sunlight, and patients are often advised to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and to use sunscreen when outdoors.
D. Haloperidol is not associated with any form of dygeusia

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has bipolar disorder and has a new prescription for lithium. To address possible adverse effects, the nurse should include that which of the following laboratory values will be monitored while the client is taking this medication?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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