A client on a mental health unit develops flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure. After reviewing the client's history, it was noted that the client has a diagnosis of schizophrenia and is currently taking risperidone (Risperdal). The nurse should recognize that which of the following adverse effects may be occurring?

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Tardive dyskinesia.

Acute dystonia.

Pseudoparkinsonism.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur as a severe adverse effect of antipsychotic medications, such as risperidone (Risperdal). Symptoms of NMS include flu-like symptoms (fever, muscle rigidity, and sweating) along with altered mental status, and autonomic dysregulation. It's crucial for the nurse to recognize this potentially fatal condition promptly and intervene appropriately.

Choice B rationale:

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder that is often a result of long-term use of antipsychotic medications, but it is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements of the face and other body parts. It doesn't typically present with flu-like symptoms or low blood pressure.

Choice C rationale:

Acute dystonia is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, often involving the muscles of the face, neck, and back. It usually occurs shortly after starting antipsychotic treatment. While it can cause discomfort, it doesn't present with flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure as described in the scenario.

Choice D rationale:

Pseudoparkinsonism, also known as drug-induced parkinsonism, is characterized by symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and rigidity. It doesn't typically cause flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Reviewing the client's toxicology laboratory report is not the priority action in this situation. While assessing toxicology can provide valuable information, the immediate concern is the client's safety due to their admission of thoughts of self-harm with a plan. Toxicology can be relevant but addressing the immediate risk takes precedence.

Choice B rationale:

Initiating suicide precautions is the priority action in this case. The client's admission of thoughts of self-harm with a plan indicates a high risk for suicide. Suicide precautions involve closely monitoring the client, removing any potential means of self-harm, and providing a safe environment. Addressing the client's immediate safety is of utmost importance.

Choice C rationale:

Making a contract with the client for eating behavior is not the priority action in this situation. While eating behavior might be a concern for some individuals with borderline personality disorder, depression, and substance abuse, the client's current statement about self-harm takes precedence. Ensuring the client's safety comes before addressing other aspects of their care.

Choice D rationale:

Administering the Hamilton Depression Scale is not the priority action in this scenario. While assessing the severity of the client's depression is important, the immediate concern is their safety due to the expressed thoughts of self-harm. Once the client's safety is ensured, further assessment and evaluation can take place.

A. Risperidone (Risperdal). B. Lithium carbonate (Eskalith). C. Disulfiram (Antabuse). D. Methadone (Methadose).

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Risperidone (Risperdal) is an atypical antipsychotic commonly used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is not indicated for opioid withdrawal, making it an inappropriate choice.

Choice B rationale:

Lithium carbonate (Eskalith) is a mood stabilizer used primarily for bipolar disorder. It has no direct impact on opioid withdrawal symptoms, so it would not be the correct choice for managing opioid withdrawal.

Choice C rationale:

Disulfiram (Antabuse) is used to deter alcohol consumption by inducing unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed. It is not used to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms and is therefore not the correct choice.

Choice D rationale:

Methadone (Methadose) is a synthetic opioid agonist often used in medication-assisted treatment for opioid dependence and withdrawal. It helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings, promoting a smoother and safer withdrawal process.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse in the Emergency Department is caring for a client with symptoms of depression and admits to thoughts of self-harm with a plan. The client has a history of borderline personality disorder, depression, and substance abuse. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who is withdrawing from opioids. Which of the following medications would the nurse prepare to administer?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with Severe Intellectual Disability. Which of the following characteristics should the nurse recognize to be associated with Severe Intellectual Disability?

A nurse on an inpatient eating disorders unit is caring for a client who has anorexia nervosa and has a body mass index of 17.2. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.).

A nurse is assessing a client who is withdrawing from alcohol. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply).

A nurse is teaching a female client who has an anxiety disorder and is prescribed alprazolam (Xanax). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

A nurse is creating a plan of care for a client who is experiencing mania. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

A nurse is assessing a client who is sharing information regarding concerns about their marriage. The client states "My spouse and I argue most times." Which of the following statements by the nurse requires intervention by the charge nurse?

A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with schizophrenia. The client states, "Did you know that I am engaged to the Prince of England?" The nurse should document that the client is experiencing which of the following types of delusions?