A client diagnosed with schizophrenia, who has been taking antipsychotic medication for the last 5 months, presents in an emergency department (ED) with uncontrollable tongue movements, stiff neck, and difficulty swallowing. The nurse would expect the physician to recognize which condition and implement which treatment?
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medications
Agranulocytosis treated by administration of clozapine (Clozaril)
Tardive dyskinesia treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medication
Headache treated by administration of Hydrochlorothiazide
The Correct Answer is C
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.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Maintain consistency of care by open communication to avoid staff manipulation: This is the correct answer. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) clients may engage in splitting behaviors, which involve polarized views of staff as either all good or all bad. Maintaining consistency of care and open communication can help prevent manipulation and ensure fair and transparent interactions.
B. Maintain unit order by the application of autocratic leadership: Autocratic leadership, characterized by a top-down approach with limited input from others, may not be the most effective strategy in this situation. It may lead to resistance from clients and potentially escalate the conflict.
C. Allow the clients to apply the democratic process when developing unit rules: While democratic processes are generally beneficial, allowing clients to unreasonably demand modifications of unit rules without considering the overall impact on the therapeutic environment may not be appropriate. It's important to balance client involvement with maintaining a structured and therapeutic milieu.
D. Allow the client spokesperson to verbalize concerns during a unit staff meeting: While it's important to provide a platform for clients to express concerns, allowing a spokesperson to verbalize concerns during a staff meeting should be done in a manner that maintains order and follows the therapeutic goals of the unit. It should not involve unreasonably demanding modifications without a careful consideration of the impact on the overall treatment milieu.
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