a patient with schizophrenia is taking haloperidol what is a priority assessment for the nurse
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Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

ATI Mental Health Practice A 2023

1. When a patient with schizophrenia is taking haloperidol, what is a priority assessment for the nurse?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Monitoring for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome is crucial for patients taking haloperidol. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but serious side effect that can occur with antipsychotic medications like haloperidol. It presents with symptoms such as high fever, unstable blood pressure, confusion, muscle rigidity, and autonomic dysfunction. Early detection and intervention are essential to prevent serious complications.

2. A healthcare provider is developing a care plan for a patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which intervention should be included to help the patient manage flashbacks?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Teaching grounding techniques is an effective intervention for managing flashbacks in patients with PTSD. Grounding techniques help individuals focus on the present moment, which can reduce the intensity of flashbacks and promote a sense of safety and stability.

3. Which medication is commonly used to treat both major depressive disorder and neuropathic pain?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Duloxetine, also known as Cymbalta, is a medication commonly used to treat both major depressive disorder and neuropathic pain. It is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that helps alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions. Gabapentin is primarily used for neuropathic pain, Amitriptyline is commonly used as an antidepressant, and Tramadol is an opioid analgesic often used for pain relief but not typically indicated for major depressive disorder.

4. What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack is to provide a safe, calm environment. This action is crucial as it helps reduce the patient's anxiety and creates a sense of security, which can aid in managing the panic attack effectively. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings, administering medication, or teaching deep breathing exercises can be beneficial interventions, but creating a safe and calm environment takes precedence in addressing the immediate needs of the patient during a panic attack.

5. A healthcare professional is caring for a group of clients. Which of the following clients should the healthcare professional consider for referral to an assertive community treatment (ACT) group?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The client who lives at home and repeatedly forgets to come in for a scheduled monthly antipsychotic injection for schizophrenia should be considered for referral to an assertive community treatment (ACT) group. ACT teams provide intensive community-based treatment and support for individuals with severe mental illness who may have difficulty adhering to treatment on their own. Choices A, C, and D do not describe individuals with severe mental illness who have difficulty adhering to treatment or need intensive community-based support, which are the typical candidates for referral to an ACT group.

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