For the nurse managing the therapeutic milieu, the most heavily weighted factor in determining whether a client should receive a prn dose of Haloperidol is whether
less-restrictive alternatives have been tried without success
the medication will make the work of the staff easier or safer
the client is willing to accept the medication
the clients behavior indicates possible danger to self, others or the environment
The Correct Answer is D
A. Less-restrictive alternatives have been tried without success: While it is important to explore less-restrictive alternatives before resorting to medication, the immediate concern is the client's safety and the safety of others. If the client's behavior poses a significant risk, prompt intervention may be necessary.
B. The medication will make the work of the staff easier or safer: While staff safety is important, the primary consideration for administering a prn dose of Haloperidol is the clinical need based on the client's behavior and potential danger to themselves, others, or the environment.
C. The client is willing to accept the medication: Client willingness to accept medication is relevant for promoting collaboration in treatment, but the urgency in administering a prn dose is often based on the client's behavior and the level of risk they pose.
D. The client's behavior indicates possible danger to self, others, or the environment: This is the most critical factor in determining the need for a prn dose. If a client's behavior poses a significant risk, such as aggression, violence, or extreme agitation, administering a prn dose of medication may be necessary to ensure safety and prevent harm.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medications: The symptoms described (uncontrollable tongue movements, stiff neck, difficulty swallowing) are more indicative of tardive dyskinesia than neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is characterized by hyperthermia, autonomic dysregulation, altered mental status, and generalized muscle rigidity. Treatment involves discontinuing antipsychotic medications and supportive care.
B. Agranulocytosis treated by administration of clozapine (Clozaril): Agranulocytosis is a rare but serious side effect of clozapine, not a treatment for the symptoms described. The symptoms presented are more consistent with tardive dyskinesia.
C. Tardive dyskinesia treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medication: This is the correct answer. Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary and abnormal movements, including tongue protrusion and facial grimacing. It can result from long-term use of antipsychotic medications, and discontinuing or reducing the dose of the antipsychotic is a primary intervention.
D. Headache treated by administration of Hydrochlorothiazide: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic used to treat conditions like high blood pressure and edema, not headache or the symptoms described, which are more indicative of tardive dyskinesia.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Note escalating behaviors and intervene immediately:
This option prioritizes the client's safety by addressing escalating behaviors promptly. Bizarre behaviors, neologisms, and thought insertion may indicate a severe episode of psychosis, and timely intervention is crucial to prevent harm to the client or others.
B. Interpret attempts at communication:
While understanding and interpreting communication are important, in a situation with escalating behaviors and potential safety concerns, immediate intervention takes precedence. Communication interpretation can follow once the safety of the client has been ensured.
C. Assess for medication noncompliance:
Medication noncompliance can contribute to exacerbation of symptoms, but in an acute situation where safety is a concern, addressing immediate behaviors takes precedence. Medication assessment can be done in the context of a more comprehensive assessment after the immediate safety concerns have been addressed.
D. Assess triggers for bizarre, inappropriate behaviors:
Identifying triggers is important for understanding the underlying causes of the behavior, but in the context of escalating behaviors and potential safety issues, immediate intervention to de-escalate the situation is the priority. Triggers can be explored once the immediate safety concerns are addressed.
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