which of the following is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. Which of the following is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications?

A. Hyperactivity
B. Weight loss
C. Extrapyramidal symptoms
D. Insomnia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Extrapyramidal symptoms, such as tremors and rigidity, are frequently observed as side effects of antipsychotic medications. These symptoms result from the medications' influence on dopamine receptors in the brain. Choice A, hyperactivity, is not a typical side effect of antipsychotic medications. Choice B, weight loss, is less common compared to weight gain. Choice D, insomnia, though possible, is not as prevalent as extrapyramidal symptoms in individuals taking antipsychotic medications.

2. Which statement is an example of reflection?

A. I think this feeling will pass.
B. So you are saying that life has no meaning.
C. I'm not sure I understand what you mean.
D. You look sad.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Reflection involves restating the patient's words or feelings to show understanding and encourage further discussion. Choice B restates the patient's statement, demonstrating active listening and empathy.

3. A school nurse is assessing a female high school student who is overly concerned about her appearance. The client's mother states, 'That's not something to be stressed about!' Which is the most appropriate nursing response?

A. Teenagers! They don't know a thing about real stress.
B. Stress occurs only when there is a loss.
C. When you are in poor physical condition, you can't experience psychological well-being.
D. Stress can be psychological. A threat to self-esteem may result in high stress levels.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most appropriate response is D: 'Stress can be psychological. A threat to self-esteem may result in high stress levels.' This response acknowledges the psychological aspect of stress and how a perceived threat to self-esteem can be just as stressful as a physiological change. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not address the client's concerns or provide a therapeutic response to the situation.

4. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching regarding the treatment of major depressive disorder?

A. I have been on this antidepressant for 3 days. I understand that the full effect may take weeks to occur.
B. I am going to ask my nurse practitioner to discontinue my Prozac today and let me start taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor tomorrow.
C. I may ask to have my medication changed to Wellbutrin due to the problems I am having being romantic with my wife.
D. I realize that there are many antidepressants and it might take a while until we find the one that works best for me.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Choice B indicates a need for further teaching because the patient is planning to switch directly from Prozac, an SSRI, to a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) without allowing for a washout period. This abrupt switch poses a risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening. It is essential to educate the patient about the importance of consulting healthcare providers before changing medications to prevent potential adverse effects.

5. A client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is being cared for by a nurse. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?

A. Encourage the client to suppress compulsive behaviors.
B. Set strict limits on the amount of time the client can engage in compulsive behaviors.
C. Allow the client to perform compulsive behaviors as needed.
D. Gradually limit the amount of time allotted for compulsive behaviors.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In caring for a client with OCD, it is essential to gradually limit the time allotted for compulsive behaviors. This intervention helps the client develop alternative coping mechanisms. Encouraging suppression or setting strict limits on compulsive behaviors can exacerbate the client's anxiety, making it crucial to approach the care plan with a gradual reduction strategy. Allowing the client to perform compulsive behaviors as needed does not promote progress towards managing OCD symptoms and may reinforce maladaptive patterns of behavior.