The nurse has administered a dose of haloperidol to a client with schizophrenia. Which of the following adverse effects would need to be reported to the provider immediately?
Dry mouth
Oral temperature of 101 F
Drowsiness
Blood pressure of 104/72 mmHg
The Correct Answer is B
The nurse would need to report an oral temperature of 101 F to the provider immediately. This could be a sign of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a rare but potentially life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications such as haloperidol ¹. NMS can cause high fever, muscle rigidity, and changes in mental status ¹.
Option A is incorrect because dry mouth is a common side effect of haloperidol and would not need to be reported to the provider immediately ².
Option C is incorrect because drowsiness is a common side effect of haloperidol and would not need to be reported to the provider immediately ⁴.
Option D is incorrect because a blood pressure of 104/72 mmHg is within the normal range and would not need to be reported to the provider immediately.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The sudden development of hives in a client taking phenytoin is most likely an allergic response to the medication. In this case, the medication should be stopped and the healthcare provider should be notified.
Option A is incorrect because a paradoxical reaction is not related to the development of hives.
Option C is incorrect because an idiosyncratic reaction is unpredictable and can disrupt the treatment plan.
Option D is incorrect because a hypersensitive response would require more than just reducing the dose; the medication should be stopped.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Benzodiazepines are medications that work in the central nervous system and are used for a variety of medical conditions such as anxiety, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal ². They work by blocking excessive activity of nerves in the brain and other areas in the central nervous system ². While benzodiazepines can be effective in treating these conditions, they are not a cure and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include counseling or other forms of therapy ¹.
Option A is not correct because benzodiazepines do not require frequent blood counts to avoid adverse effects.
Option B is not correct because the decision to stop a medication should be made by a healthcare provider based on an individual's response to treatment.
Option D is not correct because benzodiazepines are not intended for long-term use and should be used for the shortest possible time to achieve therapeutic goals ².
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