A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine. The nurse teaches the client and family to call the physician immediately if:
There are any signs of infection.
There is a decrease in hallucinations.
Appetite continues to decrease after one week.
Insomnia occurs for more than two nights.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Clozapine is known to cause agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening condition where the white blood cell count drops significantly, leading to a higher risk of infection. Patients on clozapine must have regular blood tests to monitor their white blood cell count. Any signs of infection, such as fever, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms, should be reported to a physician immediately as they could indicate agranulocytosis.
Choice B Reason:
A decrease in hallucinations is generally a positive sign indicating that the medication is working effectively. It is not a reason to call the physician immediately. Instead, this should be discussed during regular follow-up appointments to assess the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
Choice C Reason:
While a decrease in appetite can be a side effect of clozapine, it is not typically an emergency unless it leads to significant weight loss or malnutrition. This should be monitored and discussed with the physician during regular visits. If the decrease in appetite is severe or persistent, it may warrant a call to the physician, but it is not as urgent as signs of infection.
Choice D Reason:
Insomnia can occur with clozapine use, but it is usually managed with adjustments to the medication regimen or additional treatments for sleep. While it is important to address insomnia, it does not require immediate medical attention unless it severely impacts the patient’s well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["125"]
Explanation
To calculate the infusion rate in drops per minute:
- Identify the total volume to be infused: 125 mL
- Identify the total time for infusion: 1 hour (which is 60 minutes)
- Identify the drop factor: 60 gtts/mL
Step 1: Calculate the infusion rate in mL per minute.
- Volume (mL) ÷ Time (minutes)
- 125 mL ÷ 60 minutes = 2.0833 mL per minute
Step 2: Calculate the infusion rate in drops per minute.
- Infusion rate (mL per minute) × Drop factor (gtts/mL)
- 2.0833 mL per minute × 60 gtts/mL = 125 gtts per minute
The drug will infuse at 125 drops per minute.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Hypertension.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not a common side effect of lorazepam. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine, which typically causes sedation and relaxation of muscles, leading to a decrease in blood pressure rather than an increase. Therefore, hypertension is not an expected side effect of this medication.
Choice B Reason:
Tinnitus.
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is also not commonly associated with lorazepam use. While tinnitus can be a side effect of various medications, it is not typically linked to benzodiazepines like lorazepam. Therefore, it is not an expected side effect for clients taking this medication.
Choice C Reason:
Metallic taste.
A metallic taste is not a common side effect of lorazepam. This side effect is more often associated with other medications, such as certain antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs. Lorazepam’s side effects are more related to its sedative properties.
Choice D Reason:
Dizziness.
Dizziness is a common side effect of lorazepam. As a central nervous system depressant, lorazepam can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Clients should be advised to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving, until they know how the medication affects them.
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