A client is prescribed clozapine (Clozaril). The nurse should closely monitor the client for which potential adverse effect?
Extrapyramidal symptoms.
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Tardive dyskinesia.
The Correct Answer is C
Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Clozapine (Clozaril) is an atypical antipsychotic drug that can cause a rare but serious skin reaction called Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which is characterized by blisters, rash, and peeling skin. The nurse should monitor the client for any signs of skin irritation or infection and instruct the client to report them immediately.
Choice A is wrong because extrapyramidal symptoms are more common with typical antipsychotics than with atypical antipsychotics. Extrapyramidal symptoms include involuntary movements, muscle stiffness, and tremors.
Choice B is wrong because neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a life-threatening adverse reaction of antipsychotics that involves high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic instability. It is not specific to clozapine and can occur with any antipsychotic drug.
Choice D is wrong because tardive dyskinesia is a long-term adverse effect of antipsychotics that involves repetitive and involuntary movements of the tongue, jaw, face, and limbs. It is also more common with typical antipsychotics than with atypical antipsychotics.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A"]
Explanation
Lamotrigine can cause a serious and potentially life-threatening skin reaction called Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which causes flu-like symptoms, followed by a red or purple rash that spreads and forms blisters.This is more likely to happen in the first 8 weeks of starting lamotrigine, or when the dose is increased too quickly. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to report any signs of rash immediately and stop taking the medication until further evaluation.
Choice B is wrong because lamotrigine can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food does not affect its absorption or effectiveness.
Choice C is wrong because lamotrigine does not affect hormonal contraceptives, and vice versa.However, the nurse should advise the client to inform their doctor if they are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as lamotrigine may have some risks for the fetus.
Choice D is wrong because lamotrigine may take several weeks or months to show therapeutic effects, depending on the condition being treated. The nurse should encourage the client to be patient and adhere to the prescribed regimen.
Choice E is wrong because lamotrigine does not interact with grapefruit juice.However, the nurse should advise the client to avoid alcohol, as it may increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and seizures.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Serum lithium levels should be monitored regularly while taking this medication because lithium has a narrow therapeutic range and can cause toxicity if the levels are too high or ineffective if the levels are too low.The normal range for serum lithium levels is 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L (0.6 to 1.2 mmol/L).
Choice A is wrong because blood glucose levels are not affected by lithium and do not need to be monitored regularly.
Choice B is wrong because serum potassium levels are not affected by lithium and do not need to be monitored regularly.
Choice D is wrong because serum calcium levels are not affected by lithium and do not need to be monitored regularly.
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