An elderly client is being discharged home. The client lives alone and has atrophy of his olfactory organs. The nurse tells the client's family that it is essential that the client have what installed in the home?

A. "It will not produce sedation like benzodiazepines." Buspirone is a non-sedative anxiolytic, making it safer for long-term use compared to benzodiazepines, which can cause sedation and other CNS depressant effects. This is the best response as it directly addresses the patient's concern about safety.

B. "It produces anticonvulsant action to prevent convulsions." Buspirone does not have anticonvulsant properties, and this response does not address the patient’s question about safety compared to benzodiazepines.

C. "It produces muscle relaxant effects to decrease back pain." Buspirone does not have muscle relaxant effects, and this response does not directly answer the patient’s concern about the safety of the medication.

D. "It provides you with a sleep additive to decrease insomnia." Buspirone does not have significant sedative or hypnotic effects, making this response incorrect.

A. Monitoring the client for neuroleptic malignant syndrome for up to 2 months after initiating the drug. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but serious adverse effect of antipsychotic medications. Monitoring for NMS, especially during the first few months of treatment, is crucial.

B. Encouraging the client to report signs of diabetes, such as increased thirst, hunger, and urination. Some antipsychotics, particularly second-generation antipsychotics, are associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, including diabetes. Clients should be educated to report symptoms suggestive of hyperglycemia.

C. Advising the client to report weight gain and skin rashes to the health care provider immediately. Weight gain is a common side effect, particularly with second-generation antipsychotics. Skin rashes could indicate an allergic reaction, including serious conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, requiring immediate medical attention.

D. Using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) to assess for neurologic adverse effects. The AIMS scale is used to assess for tardive dyskinesia and other extrapyramidal symptoms, which are potential adverse effects of antipsychotic medications.

E. Administering the medication subcutaneously when the client is unable to swallow effectively. Antipsychotic medications are generally not administered subcutaneously. If a client cannot swallow, an alternative route such as intramuscular injection or an orally disintegrating tablet might be used.