A nurse on a mental health unit observes a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia on antipsychotics exhibiting an impaired gait and uncontrollable tremors. The nurse should recognize that which of the following adverse effects may be occurring?
Acute dystonia
Pseudoparkinsonism
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Tardive dyskinesia
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Acute dystonia is a type of extrapyramidal side effect that can occur with antipsychotic medications. It typically presents as muscle spasms, stiffness, and oculogyric crisis. While it can affect gait and cause tremors, these symptoms are more commonly associated with pseudoparkinsonism when they appear as part of a medication side effect profile.
Choice B reason:
Pseudoparkinsonism is an adverse effect of antipsychotic medications that mimics the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as bradykinesia, rigidity, tremors, and postural instability. The impaired gait and uncontrollable tremors observed by the nurse are characteristic signs of pseudoparkinsonism.
Choice C reason:
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but serious condition associated with the use of antipsychotic medications. It presents with severe muscle rigidity, fever, autonomic instability, and altered mental status. While tremors can be a symptom, the defining features of NMS are high fever and muscle rigidity, which were not mentioned in the scenario.
Choice D reason:
Tardive dyskinesia is a late-onset side effect of antipsychotic medications characterized by repetitive, involuntary, and purposeless movements such as grimacing, tongue protrusion, lip smacking, and blinking. It does not typically present with an impaired gait or tremors, which are more indicative of pseudoparkinsonism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The statement "I have heard that abusers try to keep their partner isolated from others" is accurate. Abusers often isolate their victims to maintain control and prevent them from seeking help or support. This isolation can be physical, emotional, or social, and it is a common tactic used by abusers to exert power over their partners.
Choice B Reason:
The statement "I know that men who are abusers gain power through intimidation" is also correct. Abusers often use intimidation, threats, and fear to control their victims. This can include verbal threats, physical violence, and other forms of coercion. Intimidation is a key component of the power and control dynamics in abusive relationships.
Choice C Reason:
The statement "I have heard that abusers think of themselves as important and have high self-esteem" is incorrect and indicates a need for clarification. Research shows that many abusers actually have low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy. They often use abusive behavior to compensate for their own insecurities and to feel a sense of power and control. Abusers may appear confident and self-assured, but this is often a facade to mask their underlying insecurities.
Choice D Reason:
The statement "I know that abusers lack social supports and social skills" is accurate. Many abusers have poor social skills and lack supportive relationships. This can contribute to their abusive behavior, as they may struggle with communication, conflict resolution, and forming healthy relationships. The lack of social support can also exacerbate feelings of isolation and frustration, leading to abusive behavior.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Seizures are a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom of alcohol withdrawal. They can occur as a result of the sudden cessation of alcohol intake, especially in individuals with a long history of heavy use. The risk of seizures is highest in the first 48 hours after the last drink.
Choice B Reason:
Tachycardia, or rapid heart rate, is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. It is part of the body's sympathetic nervous system response to the stress of withdrawal. Monitoring and managing tachycardia is important to prevent complications.
Choice C Reason:
Hallucinations, particularly visual hallucinations, can occur during alcohol withdrawal. These hallucinations are typically transient and may occur in the absence of other delirium symptoms. They are a component of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome.
Choice D Reason:
Tremors are one of the earliest signs of alcohol withdrawal and are often referred to as "the shakes." They are caused by the nervous system adjusting to the absence of alcohol. Tremors usually begin within 5 to 10 hours after the last alcohol intake and can worsen over the next 48 to 72 hours.
Choice E Reason:
Hypotension is not typically a primary symptom of alcohol withdrawal. In fact, blood pressure may initially rise during withdrawal. However, if severe withdrawal leads to dehydration or other complications, hypotension could potentially occur.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.