A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who started taking haloperidol decanoate 125 mg IM 1 month ago. Which of the following statements by the client should the nurse address?
"I haven't had a drink of alcohol since I started taking these injections."
"I spend several hours a day outside gardening when it's sunny."
"I check my blood pressure once a week.
"I chew sugar-free gum several times daily."
The Correct Answer is B
A. This statement indicates that the client has abstained from alcohol while on haloperidol decanoate. This is a positive statement and shows compliance with recommendations, as alcohol can interact with medications and affect their effectiveness or cause adverse reactions. There is no immediate concern with this statement.
B. Haloperidol can increase sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). Spending several hours outside gardening in the sun could potentially increase the risk of sunburn or other skin reactions due to photosensitivity. The nurse should address this statement by educating the client about the need to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak sunlight hours.
C. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is generally recommended for clients taking haloperidol, as it can occasionally cause hypotension (low blood pressure) as a side effect. Checking blood pressure once a week is a reasonable frequency, but the nurse should ensure that the client understands the signs and symptoms of hypotension and knows when to seek medical attention if blood pressure readings are abnormal.
D. Chewing sugar-free gum is generally not contraindicated while taking haloperidol. However, if the gum contains caffeine or other stimulants, it could potentially exacerbate certain side effects of the medication, such as tremors or restlessness. The nurse should inquire further about the type of gum being used and educate the client about potential interactions or side effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is not indicated for smoking cessation and does not have any direct effect on nicotine withdrawal or cravings. Therefore, it would not be included in discussions about smoking cessation medications.
B. Bupropion is a medication that is FDA-approved for smoking cessation. It works by reducing nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is available in sustained-release formulations specifically marketed for smoking cessation under the brand name Zyban. Bupropion can be effective in helping individuals quit smoking and is often recommended as a first-line treatment.
C. Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic medication used primarily to treat conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. It does not have any specific indication or role in smoking cessation. Therefore, it would not typically be included in discussions about medications for quitting smoking.
D. Quetiapine is another antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Similar to aripiprazole and risperidone, it does not have any direct role in smoking cessation. It is not indicated for reducing nicotine cravings or aiding in smoking cessation efforts.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal. Instead, tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is more commonly observed due to the stimulant effects of alcohol withdrawal on the autonomic nervous system.
B. Drowsiness is not a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. Instead, individuals may experience insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns as part of withdrawal symptoms.
C. Double vision (diplopia) is not a typical finding in alcohol withdrawal.
D. When a person stops or significantly decreases their alcohol intake after long-term use, the body can react with symptoms like increased blood pressure.
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