Four hours after receiving risperidone (Risperdal), the patient ...

[pane00]

Four hours after receiving risperidone (Risperdal), the patient on the psychiatric unit has a temperature elevation of 2 F. What is the nurse's best action?
 
  a. Administer the next dose of the drug as prescribed.
  b. Assess the patient for other signs and symptoms of infection.
  c. Hold the next drug dose and notify the prescriber immediately.
  d. Attempt to arouse the patient from sleep by gently shaking his or her arm.

Question 2

An older patient taking lithium carbonate (Eskalith) for 2 months has all of the following conditions. Which symptom does the nurse report to the prescriber as a possible side effect that may require a change of drug or drug dosage?
 
  a. Dry mouth
  b. Increased belching after meals
  c. Weight loss of 6 lb in 1 week
  d. International normalized ratio (INR) of 1.1

[katheyjon]

Answer to Question 1

C
A rapid temperature elevation is often the first sign of an adverse reaction called neuroleptic ma-lignant syndrome. This reaction involves the autonomic nervous system and is potentially life threatening. Until the cause of the temperature elevation is identified, further drug dosages should be withheld.

Answer to Question 2

C
Lithium can cause a type of diabetes insipidus in which the patient has an excessive urine output that can lead to dehydration. A 6-lb weight loss is significant and should be reported to the pre-scriber. The patient may be at risk for dehydration.

[pane00]

Both answers were spot on, thank you once again

[katheyjon]

Great! Please up vote