The nurse is preparing to administer loxapine (Loxitane) 50 mg to a patient who has schizophrenia. The patient has been taking this medication twice daily for 15 months.
The nurse notes smacking lip movements and involuntary movements of all extremities. Which action by the nurse is correct?
a. Administer the medication as ordered to treat these symptoms of psychosis.
b. Hold the dose and notify the provider of these medication adverse effects.
c. Request an order for an anticholinergic medication such as benztropine (Cogentin).
d. Suggest that the provider increase the dose to 125 mg twice daily.
Question 2
The nurse is caring for a patient who has begun taking chlorpromazine HCl (Thorazine) 75 mg BID to treat schizophrenia.
A family member tells the nurse that the patient's agitation, hallucinations, and delusional symptoms have improved, but the patient continues to withdraw from social interaction and won't bathe unless reminded to do so. The nurse will tell the family member that
a. all symptoms will eventually resolve over time with this medication.
b. the patient may need an increased dose of the antipsychotic medication.
c. these results may indicate that the patient does not have schizophrenia.
d. they should consider discussing adding another medication.
Nurse-patient interaction; nonveral communication
Patient teaching: hair and scalp assessment
An open chamber MRI may be more comfortable for the patient, but images may not be as distinct.
Instructing a Patient to Use Crutches Correctly
Symptoms of a patient in shock.
Genetic Vulnerability to Schizophrenia