A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine (Clozaril). Which client symptoms related to the side effects of this medication should prompt a nurse to intervene immediately?
Dry mouth and urinary retention
Akinesia and insomnia
Sore throat, fever, and malaise
Akathisia and hypersalivation
The Correct Answer is C
A. Dry mouth and urinary retention: These symptoms are not typically associated with the side effects of clozapine. Dry mouth is a common side effect of many antipsychotic medications, but urinary retention is not a typical side effect of clozapine.
B. Akinesia and insomnia: Akinesia (lack of movement) is not a common side effect of clozapine. Insomnia can occur with various antipsychotic medications but does not typically warrant immediate intervention unless severe or persistent.
C. Sore throat, fever, and malaise: These symptoms can indicate a potentially serious side effect known as agranulocytosis, which is a significant reduction in white blood cell count. Clozapine is associated with an increased risk of agranulocytosis. If a client experiences symptoms such as sore throat, fever, or malaise, it may indicate a severe drop in white blood cell count, and immediate medical attention is necessary.
D. Akathisia and hypersalivation: Akathisia (restlessness) is a known side effect of antipsychotic medications, but it is not typically associated with immediate severe medical risks. Hypersalivation is a common side effect but does not usually require immediate intervention unless severe.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The client will substitute a productive activity for rituals by day one: This outcome may be challenging to achieve within the first day, and it is important to set realistic goals. Moreover, focusing on substituting a productive activity might not address the immediate need to reduce ritualistic behaviors.
B. The client will refrain from ritualistic behaviors during daylight hours: This is an appropriate initial outcome. It acknowledges the challenge of completely eliminating rituals but sets a realistic goal of refraining from these behaviors during daylight hours. This allows for gradual progress without setting unrealistic expectations.
C. The client will participate in unit activities by day three: While participation in unit activities is a positive goal, it may be too optimistic to expect this within the first three days, especially considering the severity of obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms.
D. The client will wake early enough to complete rituals prior to breakfast: This goal does not promote a reduction in ritualistic behaviors; instead, it may reinforce and accommodate the rituals. The aim of treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder is to reduce the impact of these rituals, not to support them.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Provide personal space to respect the client's boundaries: This is the correct answer. Personal space is crucial when caring for an agitated client with paranoia. Respecting the client's need for distance helps to reduce anxiety and prevent escalation of agitation.
B. Maintain continual eye contact throughout the interview: Continuous eye contact may be perceived as confrontational and can increase anxiety, especially in individuals with paranoia. It is important to be mindful of non-verbal cues and adapt the approach to the client's comfort level.
C. Provide neon lights and soft music: Introducing external stimuli like neon lights and music may not be appropriate for an agitated client with paranoia. It could potentially exacerbate their distress. The focus should be on creating a calm and non-threatening environment.
D. Use therapeutic touch to increase trust and rapport: While therapeutic touch can be beneficial in certain situations, it may not be suitable for a client experiencing paranoia. Touch can be perceived as intrusive and may escalate agitation in this context.
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