A nurse is assessing a client who is taking an antipsychotic medication. Which statement by the client indicates a common adverse effect of antipsychotics?
"I have been experiencing drowsiness since starting the medication."
"I noticed a decrease in my appetite after taking this medication."
"I have been experiencing increased energy and restlessness."
"I have noticed a significant improvement in my mood.”
The Correct Answer is A
Drowsiness is a common adverse effect of antipsychotics, especially in the first few weeks of treatment. Antipsychotics block dopamine receptors in the brain, which can cause sedation and fatigue.
Choice B is wrong because antipsychotics usually increase appetite, not decrease it. This can lead to weight gain and metabolic problems.
Choice C is wrong because antipsychotics do not cause increased energy and restlessness. These symptoms may indicate a manic episode or akathisia, which is a movement disorder that can be caused by antipsychotics.
Choice D is wrong because antipsychotics do not directly improve mood. They are used to treat psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. Mood stabilizers or antidepressants may be needed to treat mood disorders.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Drowsiness is a common adverse effect of antipsychotics, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.Antipsychotics block dopamine receptors in the brain, which can cause sedation and fatigue.
Choice B is wrong because antipsychotics usually increase appetite, not decrease it.This can lead to weight gain and metabolic problems.
Choice C is wrong because antipsychotics do not cause increased energy and restlessness.These symptoms may indicate a manic episode or akathisia, which is a movement disorder that can be caused by antipsychotics.
Choice D is wrong because antipsychotics do not directly improve mood. They are used to treat psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.Mood stabilizers or antidepressants may be needed to treat mood disorders.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Sedation and weight gain are common side effects of atypical antipsychotic medications.These medications act on both dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain and may also have some antidepressant effects.
Choice A is wrong because weight loss and hypotension are not typical side effects of atypical antipsychotics.In fact, weight gain is more likely to occur.
Choice B is wrong because hyperactivity and insomnia are not typical side effects of atypical antipsychotics.These medications may cause difficulty sleeping and extreme tiredness.
Choice C is wrong because blurred vision and urinary retention are not typical side effects of atypical antipsychotics.These medications may cause dry mouth and constipation.
Other possible side effects of atypical antipsychotics include dizziness, seizures, allergic reactions, heart problems, and high prolactin levels.Some atypical antipsychotics may also cause extrapyramidal symptoms, such as muscle spasms, restlessness, tremors, or abnormal movements.
These are more common with typical antipsychotics.
Atypical antipsychotics are used to treat various mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD, and treatment-resistant mania.They may also be prescribed off-label for other conditions, such as Tourette’s syndrome.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.