A nurse is assessing a client who has a prescription for haloperidol 0.5 mg PO three times daily. The medication administration record shows that the client received 5 mg per dose on the previous day. Which of the following manifestations is the nurse's priority to assess?
Mostly cloudy
Constipation
Dry mouth
Daytime drowsiness
Muscle stiffness
The Correct Answer is E
Rationale:
A. Mostly cloudy: This is an unclear statement. It is not related to a physical manifestation that would result from haloperidol overdose.
B. Constipation: Although haloperidol can cause constipation as a side effect, it is not the most urgent concern. Other manifestations are more immediately life-threatening.
C. Dry mouth: Dry mouth is a common side effect of antipsychotics, but it is not life-threatening and would not be the priority assessment in the case of a medication overdose.
D. Daytime drowsiness: Sedation is a known side effect of haloperidol, but it is not the priority in this scenario where an overdose occurred.
E. Muscle stiffness: Muscle stiffness may indicate extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) or neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), both of which are serious and potentially life-threatening side effects of haloperidol, especially in cases of overdose. Assessing for these symptoms is the priority.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "I will stop taking this medication when I feel better.": The full course of antibiotics should be completed to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent antibiotic resistance. This statement shows a misunderstanding.
B. "This medication can increase my risk of sunburn.": Ciprofloxacin can increase sensitivity to sunlight, making the skin more prone to sunburn. Clients are advised to avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen.
C. "I should take my medication daily in the morning with milk.": Ciprofloxacin should not be taken with dairy products as calcium can interfere with the absorption of the medication, reducing its effectiveness.
D. "I should stop taking my birth control pills while I'm taking this medication.": Ciprofloxacin does not require discontinuation of birth control pills, though clients should be aware of the potential for antibiotic interactions to reduce contraceptive effectiveness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Furosemide is a diuretic that promotes urine production but is not indicated for treating bladder distention or urinary retention post-surgery.
B. Lorazepam is an anxiolytic medication and does not address urinary retention or bladder distention.
C. Bethanechol is a cholinergic agent that stimulates bladder contraction and is used to treat urinary retention. It helps to facilitate voiding in clients who have difficulty.
D. Atropine is an anticholinergic medication that can actually inhibit bladder contraction, making it inappropriate for this situation.