Antipsychotics
Antipsychotics ( 11 Questions)
A nurse is discussing the adverse effects of antipsychotic medications with a client. Which statement made by the client indicates a serious adverse effect that should be reported to the healthcare provider?
Choice A is wrong because “I have been feeling a bit dizzy when I stand up.” This statement indicates a common adverse effect of antipsychotic medications called orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure when changing positions. It is usually mild and transient, and can be managed by rising slowly and avoiding dehydration.
Choice B is wrong because “I have been experiencing dry mouth and constipation.” This statement indicates another common adverse effect of antipsychotic medications called anticholinergic effects, which are caused by the blockade of acetylcholine receptors in the peripheral nervous system. They include dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, constipation, and tachycardia. They are usually mild and can be managed by drinking fluids, chewing sugarless gum, using artificial tears, and increasing dietary fiber.
Choice C is wrong because “I have noticed a slight increase in my blood sugar levels.” This statement indicates a possible adverse effect of antipsychotic medications called hyperglycemia, which is an elevation of blood glucose levels. It is more common with atypical antipsychotics than with typical antipsychotics, and it may increase the risk of diabetes mellitus. It is usually monitored by regular blood tests and controlled by diet, exercise, and medication if needed.
This statement indicates a serious adverse effect that should be reported to the healthcare provider because it may suggest neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal condition that can occur with antipsychotic medications. NMS is characterized by muscle rigidity, altered mental status, tachycardia, sweating, fever, and autonomic instability. It requires immediate medical attention and discontinuation of the antipsychotic medication.
This statement indicates a serious adverse effect that should be reported to the healthcare provider because it may suggest neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal condition that can occur with antipsychotic medications. NMS is characterized by muscle rigidity, altered mental status, tachycardia, sweating, fever, and autonomic instability. It requires immediate medical attention and discontinuation of the antipsychotic medication.
Choice A is wrong because “I have been feeling a bit dizzy when I stand up.” This statement indicates a common adverse effect of antipsychotic medications called orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure when changing positions. It is usually mild and transient, and can be managed by rising slowly and avoiding dehydration.
Choice B is wrong because “I have been experiencing dry mouth and constipation.” This statement indicates another common adverse effect of antipsychotic medications called anticholinergic effects, which are caused by the blockade of acetylcholine receptors in the peripheral nervous system. They include dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, constipation, and tachycardia. They are usually mild and can be managed by drinking fluids, chewing sugarless gum, using artificial tears, and increasing dietary fiber.
Choice C is wrong because “I have noticed a slight increase in my blood sugar levels.” This statement indicates a possible adverse effect of antipsychotic medications called hyperglycemia, which is an elevation of blood glucose levels. It is more common with atypical antipsychotics than with typical antipsychotics, and it may increase the risk of diabetes mellitus. It is usually monitored by regular blood tests and controlled by diet, exercise, and medication if needed.