A client currently taking a first-generation antipsychotic (FGA) comes to the clinic for evaluation. The client presents with a shuffling gait and mild tremors. Which order would the nurse expect the provider to give?
Order a direct dopamine antagonist.
Increase the dose of the antipsychotic medication.
Withhold the medication for two days.
Order an anticholinergic medication.
The Correct Answer is D
Anticholinergic medications can be used to treat extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) such as tremors and shuffling gait that can occur as side effects of first-generation antipsychotics ¹².
Option A is not correct because a direct dopamine antagonist would not be used to treat EPS.
Option B is not correct because increasing the dose of the antipsychotic medication could worsen EPS.
Option C is not correct because withholding the medication for two days could lead to a relapse of the underlying condition being treated by the antipsychotic.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Reduced hepatic blood flow can decrease the metabolism and excretion of many drugs, requiring that doses of some drugs be decreased ². This can increase the risk of medication toxicity in older adults.
Option B is not correct because reduced body fat is not a physiological change associated with aging.
Option C is not correct because the glomerular filtration rate decreases with age ².
Option D is not correct because gastric motility decreases with age ².
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
A. Tolerance can develop over time and lead to the need for higher doses – This is correct because long-term use of clonazepam, like other benzodiazepines, can result in tolerance, potentially necessitating higher doses to achieve the same therapeutic effect.
B. Skip a dose if you need to drive – This is incorrect. Clients should be advised to take their medication as prescribed and consult their healthcare provider about driving, as clonazepam can impair coordination and reaction times.
C. Skip a dose if you plan to go out drinking with friends – This is incorrect. While it’s important to avoid alcohol when taking clonazepam due to the increased risk of sedation and respiratory depression, clients should not skip doses without consulting their healthcare provider.
D. Do not try to taper yourself off this medication without physician guidance – This is correct. Stopping clonazepam suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and seizure recurrence, so any changes in medication should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
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