A client is diagnosed with schizophrenia. A physician orders haloperidol (Haldol), 50 mg bid: benztropine (Cogentin), 1 mg prn: and zolpidem (Ambien). 10 mg HS. Which client behavior would warrant the nurse to administer benztropine?

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.

A. Concrete thinking: Concrete thinking refers to a style of thinking that is focused on immediate and literal aspects of information. The patient's statement involves more than concrete thinking; it includes an irrational belief about the consequences of contagious bacteria, indicating a distorted perception of reality.

B. Agitation: Agitation refers to a state of restlessness or increased activity. The patient's statement does not necessarily reflect agitation but rather a specific paranoid belief about the consequences of bacteria exposure.

C. Paranoia: This is the correct answer. Paranoia involves irrational thoughts and fears of being harmed or persecuted by others. The patient's belief that contagious bacteria are everywhere and will lead to being locked up with other infected people is indicative of paranoid ideation.

D. Poverty of thought: Poverty of thought is characterized by a lack of meaningful or detailed thought content. The patient's statement is not an example of poverty of thought; rather, it involves specific and elaborate content related to a paranoid belief.