A nurse is preparing to administer methylphenidate to a child who has ADHD. The child asks, “Why do I have to take this pill?” What should the nurse say?

Seizures.

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that acts on the GABA receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety.

Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, tremors, insomnia, and anxiety.

To prevent this, alprazolam should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.

Choice B is wrong because alprazolam does not cause hypotension when discontinued.

Hypotension is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in high doses or with alcohol.

Choice C is wrong because alprazolam does not cause bradycardia when discontinued.

Bradycardia is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in older adults or with other medications that slow down the heart rate.

Choice D is wrong because alprazolam does not cause constipation when discontinued.

Constipation is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in older adults or with other medications that affect the gastrointestinal motility.

The client exhibits signs of akathisia, which is a common extrapyramidal side effect of haloperidol and other first-generation antipsychotics.Akathisia is characterized by restlessness, agitation, and difficulty staying still.

Choice A is wrong because it does not identify the specific type of movement disorder the client is experiencing.

Choice C is wrong because tardive dyskinesia is a different type of extrapyramidal side effect that involves involuntary movements of the tongue, lips, face, and limbs.

Choice D is wrong because neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but life-threatening reaction to antipsychotics that causes high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic instability.