A nurse on a mental health unit observes a diagnosed schizophrenic patient on antipsychotics having an impaired gait and uncontrollable tremors. The nurse should recognize that which of the following adverse effects may be occurring?
Tardive dyskinesia.
Acute dystonia.
Pseudoparkinsonism.
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C. Pseudoparkinsonism.
Choice A rationale:
Tardive dyskinesia is a long-term side effect of antipsychotic medications characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, often around the mouth, such as lip-smacking, tongue protrusion, and chewing movements. It does not typically present with impaired gait and tremors.
Choice B rationale:
Acute dystonia involves sudden, severe muscle contractions, often affecting the neck, face, and back. Symptoms include twisting movements and abnormal postures, but it does not usually cause impaired gait and tremors.
Choice C rationale:
Pseudoparkinsonism is an adverse effect of antipsychotic medications that mimics the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity, tremors, and postural instability. The impaired gait and uncontrollable tremors observed by the nurse are characteristic signs of pseudoparkinsonism.
Choice D rationale:
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications. It presents with symptoms such as high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction (e.g., unstable blood pressure, sweating). It does not typically present with impaired gait and tremors.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Lithium is a mood stabilizer commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. It helps to regulate mood swings, prevent manic episodes, and reduce the risk of depressive episodes.
Choice B rationale:
Donepezil is not used to treat bipolar disorder. It is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor primarily used to treat symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Choice C rationale:
Valproate (Depakote) is another mood stabilizer used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. It can help manage both manic and depressive episodes, as well as prevent future mood swings.
Choice D rationale:
Carbamazepine (Tegretol) is an anticonvulsant medication that also has mood-stabilizing properties. It is often prescribed for individuals with bipolar disorder, especially those who do not respond well to lithium.
Choice E rationale:
Paroxetine (Paxil) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It is not a primary medication choice for bipolar disorder.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D:
Choice A reason: “If a dose is missed, double the next dose of medication.” This statement is incorrect. Doubling up on a dose can lead to an overdose and serious side effects. Patients are advised to take the missed dose as soon as they remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose.
Choice B reason: “This medication may increase your blood pressure.” Alprazolam is known to have a sedative effect, which can lower blood pressure rather than increase it. Therefore, this statement is not typically accurate.
Choice C reason: “Do not eat aged cheeses while taking this medication.” This dietary restriction is associated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are a different class of medications used to treat depression. Alprazolam does not interact with tyramine-rich foods like aged cheeses, so this statement is not applicable.
Choice D reason: “Use a dependable form of contraception while taking this medication.” Alprazolam falls under FDA Pregnancy Category D, which means there is positive evidence of human fetal risk, but the potential benefits may warrant use in pregnant women despite the risks. Therefore, it is important to use reliable contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication.
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