A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia and is receiving clozapine. For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor to determine if the medication is having a therapeutic effect?
Decreased auditory hallucinations
Control of seizure activity
Weight gain
Decreased WBC count
The Correct Answer is A
A. Clozapine is an antipsychotic medication commonly used to treat schizophrenia.
Reduction in auditory hallucinations is a positive therapeutic outcome indicating the medication's efficacy in managing psychotic symptoms.
B. While clozapine may have antiepileptic properties, it's primarily used for its antipsychotic effects rather than controlling seizures.
C. Weight gain is a common side effect of clozapine rather than an indicator of therapeutic effect.
D. Clozapine is associated with the potential for agranulocytosis, a severe adverse effect characterized by a decreased white blood cell count, but this is not a measure of therapeutic effect.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine, typically doesn't cause hypertension. Its primary mechanism of action involves modulation of GABA receptors in the central nervous system, leading to anxiolytic effects rather than effects on blood pressure regulation.
B. There's no documented association between alprazolam use and hearing loss.
Benzodiazepines like alprazolam primarily affect the central nervous system and do not target auditory structures.
C. Sedation is a common side effect of alprazolam due to its CNS depressant properties.
Patients often experience drowsiness, fatigue, and impaired cognitive function, especially when initiating therapy or when doses are increased.
D. Alprazolam typically doesn't cause bradycardia. While it can have mild effects on heart rate, such as tachycardia, significant bradycardia is not a documented adverse effect.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Lithium carbonate is typically taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
Taking it on an empty stomach may increase the risk of nausea and other GI symptoms.
B. It can take up to 3 weeks to see the full effects of lithium carbonate, which is used to treat bipolar disorder.
C. Clients do not need to follow a low-sodium diet; in fact, maintaining a consistent sodium intake is important while taking lithium,
D. While adequate fluid intake is important to prevent dehydration, there's no specific recommendation to limit fluid intake to 800 ounces per day. However, clients should be advised to maintain hydration and be cautious of excessive fluid intake, especially if they have kidney or cardiovascular issues.
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