A nurse on a mental health unit observes a diagnosed schizophrenic patient on antipsychotics having an impaired gait and uncontrollable tremors. The nurse should recognize that which of the following adverse effects may be occurring?
Tardive dyskinesia.
Acute dystonia.
Pseudoparkinsonism.
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C. Pseudoparkinsonism.
Choice A rationale:
Tardive dyskinesia is a long-term side effect of antipsychotic medications characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, often around the mouth, such as lip-smacking, tongue protrusion, and chewing movements. It does not typically present with impaired gait and tremors.
Choice B rationale:
Acute dystonia involves sudden, severe muscle contractions, often affecting the neck, face, and back. Symptoms include twisting movements and abnormal postures, but it does not usually cause impaired gait and tremors.
Choice C rationale:
Pseudoparkinsonism is an adverse effect of antipsychotic medications that mimics the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity, tremors, and postural instability. The impaired gait and uncontrollable tremors observed by the nurse are characteristic signs of pseudoparkinsonism.
Choice D rationale:
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications. It presents with symptoms such as high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction (e.g., unstable blood pressure, sweating). It does not typically present with impaired gait and tremors.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice D.
Choice A rationale: This statement reflects anger and frustration, which are characteristic of the anger stage of grief. The individual is expressing disbelief in the doctor's competence but is not denying the reality of their diagnosis.
Choice B rationale: This statement indicates acceptance and acknowledgment of the physical effects of the disease. The client recognizes their lack of energy but is not denying their condition, suggesting they are in a more advanced stage of the grieving process.
Choice C rationale: This statement reflects acceptance of the situation and gratitude towards the doctor. The client acknowledges the efforts made by the medical team and recognizes the inevitability of their condition, indicating they are in the acceptance stage of grief.
Choice D rationale: This statement indicates denial as the client doubts the doctor's prognosis and believes the doctor is exaggerating. Denial is a common initial reaction where the individual struggles to accept the reality of their diagnosis, instead choosing to believe it is not as severe.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A: Request a mental health consult.
Choice A rationale:
Requesting a mental health consult is the first priority in this situation. The client's significant weight loss, distorted body image, and belief that she is fat suggest potential body dysmorphic disorder, eating disorder, or other psychological concerns. It's crucial to address these underlying issues before focusing on other aspects of care.
Choice B rationale:
Providing a structured environment can be beneficial, but it might not address the root cause of the client's psychological distress and distorted body image.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing the client's nutritional status is important to understand the physical impact of the weight loss, but the urgent need here is to address the client's psychological well-being and distorted self-perception.
Choice D rationale:
Planning a therapeutic diet for the client is essential, but it should not be the first priority. The client's belief that she is fat and her significant weight loss indicate deeper psychological issues that require immediate attention. Without addressing these psychological concerns, focusing solely on a diet plan might exacerbate her distorted body image and eating behaviors.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.