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 ["A","C"]
Explanation
A. Individuals with ASPD often exhibit manipulative behaviors to exploit others for their own gain or pleasure. They may be deceitful and use charm or manipulation to achieve their goals.
B. This finding is not typically associated with ASPD. Instead, individuals with ASPD tend to focus on immediate gratification and may have difficulty with long-term planning or sustained attention.
C. People with ASPD typically have a reduced ability to empathize with others. They may disregard the feelings, rights, and sufferings of others, and show little remorse for their actions.
D. Splitting refers to a defense mechanism where individuals tend to view people, situations, or events as either all good or all bad. While this can occur in personality disorders like borderline personality disorder, it is not a characteristic feature of ASPD.
E. Impulsivity is a common trait in individuals with ASPD. They often act without considering the consequences of their actions, leading to risky behaviors such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or criminal activities.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Lithium can affect sodium and potassium balance in the body, but it does not specifically require a decrease in dietary potassium. Instead, sodium intake should be kept consistent because lithium excretion is influenced by sodium levels. Therefore, decreasing dietary potassium is not a recommended intervention.
B. Lithium can sometimes cause weight gain as a side effect. Increasing daily caloric intake is not a standard intervention when starting lithium. Clients should be encouraged to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen to manage potential weight changes.
C. Hypoglycemia is not a common side effect of lithium. Therefore, monitoring for hypoglycemia is not necessary when a client is taking lithium.
D. Administering lithium with meals can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and upset stomach, which are common when starting the medication. It also helps with consistent absorption and reduces the peak serum concentration of lithium, which can minimize side effects and stabilize blood levels.
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