A nurse on an inpatient eating disorders unit is caring for a client who has anorexia nervosa and has a body mass index of 17.2. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.).

The correct answer is choice A: "You may experience dizziness upon standing while taking this medication."

Choice A rationale:

This choice is the correct answer because haloperidol, an antipsychotic medication, can cause orthostatic hypotension, which leads to dizziness upon standing. Antipsychotic medications often affect blood pressure regulation and can result in a sudden drop in blood pressure when transitioning from sitting or lying down to standing. This explanation provides essential information to the client to help them understand potential side effects and take necessary precautions.

Choice B rationale:

This choice is incorrect. Haloperidol is not indicated for treating symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is primarily used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Providing false information about its indications is not appropriate and may lead to confusion.

Choice C rationale:

This choice is incorrect. Clients should never stop taking antipsychotic medications abruptly without consulting their healthcare provider. Discontinuing such medications can lead to withdrawal effects and a worsening of symptoms. Encouraging the client to stop the medication if side effects are bothersome is not appropriate and could potentially jeopardize their well-being.

Choice D rationale:

This choice is partially correct but not the best answer. While haloperidol can cause excessive salivation (sialorrhea) as a side effect, the primary concern in this situation should be related to orthostatic hypotension and dizziness upon standing. Mentioning excessive salivation would be helpful, but it's secondary to the risk of falls associated with orthostatic hypotension.

Choice A rationale:

The ethical concept of autonomy centers on respecting an individual's right to make decisions about their own care, even if those decisions go against medical advice. By supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications, the nurse is upholding the principle of autonomy. In mental health care, it is crucial to acknowledge and respect the client's right to make choices about their treatment, even if those choices might not align with the healthcare provider's recommendations. This action promotes patient empowerment and informed decision-making.

Choice B rationale:

While client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience is important for quality improvement, it is not directly related to the ethical concept of autonomy. Autonomy pertains to the client's right to make decisions about their treatment and care, particularly when it comes to medical interventions and choices about their own body.

Choice C rationale:

Ensuring that the client understands expectations for client participation is more aligned with the principle of informed consent and effective communication rather than autonomy. While communication is important for respecting the client's autonomy, this choice does not directly demonstrate the core concept of allowing the client to make decisions about their treatment even if they differ from medical advice.

Choice D rationale:

Explaining unit rules and policies regarding unacceptable behaviors is related to maintaining a safe and structured environment within the psychiatric unit, but it does not directly reflect the ethical concept of autonomy. Autonomy pertains to decisions specifically related to the client's medical treatment and care, not just the rules of the unit.