A client with schizophrenia receives a prescription for fluphenazine. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include when teaching the client about this drug?
Wear sunscreen when going outside to prevent effects of sun sensitivity.
Notify your healthcare provider immediately if involuntary movements develop.
Drink water frequently throughout the day as the medication increases thirst.
Check blood pressure daily and notify the healthcare provider if it increases
The Correct Answer is B
A) Wearing sunscreen when going outside to prevent effects of sun sensitivity is important for clients taking certain antipsychotic medications, but it is not the most critical instruction. While fluphenazine can cause photosensitivity, the risk of developing involuntary movements (extrapyramidal symptoms) is a more immediate concern that could significantly affect the client’s quality of life.
B) Notifying the healthcare provider immediately if involuntary movements develop is crucial when taking fluphenazine. This medication can lead to extrapyramidal symptoms such as tardive dyskinesia or acute dystonia, which require prompt assessment and intervention to prevent long-term complications. Educating the client about these potential side effects empowers them to seek timely help.
C) Drinking water frequently throughout the day is generally good advice for overall hydration, but fluphenazine does not significantly increase thirst. While maintaining hydration is important, the focus should be on the potential for serious side effects like involuntary movements, making this instruction secondary in priority.
D) Checking blood pressure daily and notifying the healthcare provider if it increases is relevant for some medications, particularly antihypertensives or those that can cause orthostatic hypotension. However, with fluphenazine, the more critical instruction revolves around recognizing and responding to neurological side effects rather than routine blood pressure monitoring, making this less of a priority.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Recalling methods that were most successful in the past is an effective coping strategy. This approach encourages the client to identify and utilize strategies that have previously helped them manage their depression. It fosters a sense of agency and can inspire motivation to engage in positive behaviors again.
B) Turning to other activities to take one's mind off of the issues may provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issues related to depression. This strategy could lead to avoidance rather than active problem-solving and engagement with life.
C) Reaching out to family and friends about feelings of abandonment is important for social support; however, it may not be the first step in the coping strategy. The client may need to develop skills to articulate their feelings before reaching out, and it also doesn’t directly address their current disengagement from activities.
D) Relaxing and reducing the amount of effort to solve the problem may feel appealing but could reinforce avoidance behaviors. It’s crucial to encourage the client to engage actively with their emotions and challenges instead of stepping back entirely. The goal should be to empower the client to take small, manageable steps toward re-engagement with life, making option A the most suitable choice.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Allowing the client time alone to sort out feelings may seem supportive, but isolation can be detrimental, especially for someone who has recently attempted suicide. Social withdrawal can exacerbate feelings of despair and hopelessness. Instead, encouraging engagement with others and structured activities is often more beneficial.
B) Avoiding discussions about subjects that upset the client can lead to avoidance coping and prevent the client from processing important emotions. While it’s important to be sensitive to triggers, avoiding difficult topics may hinder therapeutic progress. Open dialogue is essential for healing and understanding.
C) Encouraging activities that allow the client to exert control over their environment is an effective intervention. This approach helps rebuild a sense of agency and empowerment, which is crucial for clients who may feel helpless after experiencing significant losses. Engaging in structured activities can foster a sense of accomplishment and stability, which can be particularly beneficial for someone recovering from a suicide attempt.
D) Encouraging the client to interact with persons who are recovering from depression can provide valuable support and understanding; however, this may not be the most immediate intervention. The client may still be in a fragile state, and facilitating control through structured activities might be a more effective way to build confidence and a sense of community before introducing peer interactions.
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