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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This choice describes tertiary prevention, which focuses on minimizing the consequences of an existing disorder or preventing further deterioration. It is not directly related to primary prevention, which addresses the prevention of the onset of disorders.
Choice B rationale:
This choice corresponds to secondary prevention, which involves early intervention to minimize the impact of an illness that has already begun. It aims to reduce the prevalence and duration of the illness but is not the primary focus of primary prevention.
Choice C rationale:
The correct choice. Primary prevention focuses on reducing the incidence of mental disorders within the population. It involves strategies that target the entire population or specific high-risk groups to prevent the initial development of mental health issues. These strategies may include public health campaigns, education, and interventions to promote mental well-being and resilience.
Choice D rationale:
This choice describes the process of early identification and initiation of treatment, which is a component of secondary prevention. It aims to prevent the progression of existing problems rather than preventing the initial development of mental disorders.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice C.
Choice A rationale: Planning a therapeutic diet is essential for the client's recovery. However, it is not the first priority. Understanding the client's nutritional needs and current deficiencies should come before creating a diet plan.
Choice B rationale: Providing a structured environment is important to ensure the client follows the treatment plan and receives the appropriate support. However, it comes after assessing the client's current state and needs.
Choice C rationale: Assessing the client's nutritional status is the first priority because it provides critical information about the client's current health and guides all other aspects of care. Without knowing the client's nutritional status, it is challenging to make informed decisions about her treatment plan.
Choice D rationale: Requesting a mental health consult is important, especially given the client's belief that she is fat and the significant weight loss. However, before addressing her psychological needs, the nurse must understand her physical health status to provide comprehensive care.
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