A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia. The client is in the dayroom and shouting at other clients, stating, “Do not eat the food here. The staff is poisoning the food!” The nurse should document that the client is experiencing which type of delusion?

Choice A Reason:

Pseudo-Parkinsonian side effects, also known as drug-induced parkinsonism, can occur with the use of antipsychotic medications like haloperidol. These side effects include symptoms such as rigidity, bradykinesia, tremor, and postural instability. However, the description of the client’s neck arched sharply backward is more indicative of an acute dystonic reaction rather than pseudo-Parkinsonian side effects. Pseudo-Parkinsonian symptoms typically develop more gradually and do not present with such dramatic posturing.

Choice B Reason:

While some side effects of haloperidol can be temporary and may disappear after several days, the acute dystonic reaction described in the scenario requires immediate intervention. Acute dystonic reactions are characterized by sudden, severe muscle contractions that can be painful and potentially dangerous if they involve the airway. Therefore, it is crucial to address this reaction promptly rather than waiting for it to resolve on its own.

Choice C Reason:

Increasing the dosage of haloperidol in response to the described symptoms would likely exacerbate the situation. The client’s symptoms are not indicative of worsening psychotic behavior but rather an adverse reaction to the medication. Increasing the dosage could lead to more severe side effects and complications. The appropriate response is to treat the acute dystonic reaction and reassess the medication regimen.

Choice D Reason:

An acute dystonic reaction is a known side effect of antipsychotic medications like haloperidol. It involves sudden, severe muscle contractions, often affecting the neck, face, and back. This reaction can be distressing and requires immediate treatment with anticholinergic medications such as benztropine or diphenhydramine. Prompt intervention can relieve the symptoms and prevent further complications.

Choice A Reason:

Promote interaction with others.

While promoting interaction with others is important for clients with schizophrenia, it is not the primary priority. Social interaction can help improve social skills and reduce isolation, but it should come after establishing a sense of safety and trust. Clients with schizophrenia often experience significant anxiety and mistrust, which need to be addressed first to create a stable foundation for further therapeutic interventions.

Choice B Reason:

Encourage participation in group therapy activities.

Encouraging participation in group therapy activities is beneficial for clients with schizophrenia as it can provide support and help them develop social skills. However, similar to promoting interaction with others, this goal is secondary to decreasing anxiety and building trust. Clients need to feel safe and trust their caregivers before they can effectively engage in group therapy.

Choice C Reason:

Decrease their anxiety and increase trust.

This is the correct response. Decreasing anxiety and increasing trust are fundamental goals in the care of clients with schizophrenia. High levels of anxiety and mistrust can exacerbate symptoms and hinder the effectiveness of other therapeutic interventions. Establishing a trusting relationship and reducing anxiety can create a more stable and supportive environment, which is essential for the client’s overall well-being and progress.

Choice D Reason:

Improve their relationship with their parents.

Improving the client’s relationship with their parents can be an important aspect of their overall treatment plan, especially if family dynamics contribute to their condition. However, this goal is not the immediate priority. Addressing the client’s anxiety and building trust should come first, as these are critical for the client’s stability and ability to engage in family therapy effectively.