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A major advantage of giving the antipsychotic drug Invega/paliperidone is that it is effective against what symptoms?

A.

Depressive characteristics of schizophrenia

B.

Negative symptoms of schizophrenia only

C.

Both positive and negative symptoms of Schizophrenia

D.

Low serotonin levels

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Depressive characteristics of schizophrenia: While some atypical antipsychotics may have mood-stabilizing effects, paliperidone is not primarily indicated for treating depressive symptoms. Antidepressants are more effective for depressive features rather than antipsychotic agents.

B. Negative symptoms of schizophrenia only: Paliperidone helps address negative symptoms such as social withdrawal and blunted affect, but it is not limited to these alone. Its mechanism of action also targets positive symptoms, making this option incomplete.

C. Both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia: Paliperidone, an atypical antipsychotic, blocks dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. This dual action makes it effective for reducing hallucinations and delusions (positive symptoms) as well as improving motivation and affect (negative symptoms).

D. Low serotonin levels: Paliperidone does act on serotonin receptors, but it does not treat “low serotonin levels” as a standalone condition. Instead, the benefit is its balanced effect on both dopamine and serotonin pathways, reducing positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. "I'll not use my heating pad during my treatment.": Heat can increase skin irritation in areas receiving radiation. Avoiding additional heat helps prevent burns and further tissue damage.

B. "I'll wear protective clothing when outside.": Clothing can protect sensitive skin from UV exposure and reduce irritation, which is important for clients undergoing radiation therapy.

C. "I'll wash my skin with mild soap and water only.": Gentle cleansing preserves skin integrity in the radiation field and prevents further irritation or breakdown from harsh soaps or scrubbing.

D. "I'm worried I'll expose my family members to radiation.": External beam radiation therapy does not make the client radioactive, so there is no risk of exposing family members.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. "These symptoms usually result from radiation therapy; however, we will continue to monitor your laboratory studies and test results.": Fatigue and weakness are common side effects of radiation because of the body’s increased energy demands and potential effects on bone marrow.

B. "Even though it is uncomfortable, this is a good sign. It means that only the cancer cells are dying.": Radiation affects both healthy and cancerous cells. Suggesting that fatigue is proof of treatment effectiveness can minimize the client’s distress and erode trust if the symptoms worsen.

C. "Try not to be concerned about these symptoms. Every client feels this way after having radiation therapy.": This dismisses the client’s unique experience and generalizes their condition. Clients need validation of their concerns, not minimization, and care must be tailored to their individual response to treatment.

D. "These symptoms are part of your disease and are an unfortunately inevitable part of living with cancer.": This statement is discouraging and increases hopelessness by linking fatigue only to the disease rather than treatment. It does not provide reassurance or promote collaborative management strategies.

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