The patient is receiving antipsychotic medications and tells the ...

[Garrulous]

The patient is receiving antipsychotic medications and tells the nurse he has not had a bowel movement for 2 days. What is the best initial action of the nurse?
 
  1. Hold the medication until the patient has a bowel movement.
  2. Have the patient drink prune juice and additional fluids.
  3. Contact the physician for an order for a Fleet Enema.
  4. Contact the physician for an order for a stool softener.

Question 2

The nurse has completed diet education for a group of patients who are receiving antipsychotic medications. If the medication education has been effective, patients will eliminate what choice from their menu selection?
 
  1. Meats with a high-fat content
  2. Beverages with caffeine
  3. Refined breads and desserts
  4. Shellfish and peanuts

[Kedrick2014]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale: Constipation is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications. The best approach is to have the patient increase dietary fiber and fluids, and to exercise to prevent constipation. Contacting the physician for an order for a Fleet Enema is premature; the patient should initially increase dietary fiber, fluids, and exercise to prevent constipation. Contacting the physician for an order for a stool softener is premature; the patient should initially increase dietary fiber, fluids, and exercise to prevent constipation. Antipsychotic medications should not be held because of constipation.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale: The use of caffeine-containing substances will decrease the effect of antipsychotic medications. Although unhealthy, high-fat meats do not affect the action of antipsychotic medications. Although unhealthy, refined breads and desserts do not affect the action of antipsychotic medications. Many individuals are allergic to shellfish and peanuts, but they do not affect the action of antipsychotic medications.