A nurse administering psychotropic medications should be prepared ...

[Mimi]

A nurse administering psychotropic medications should be prepared to intervene when giving a drug that blocks the attachment of norepinephrine to alpha1 receptors because the patient may experience:
 
  a. increased psychotic symptoms
  b. severe appetite disturbance
  c. orthostatic hypotension
  d. hypertensive crisis

Question 2

The laboratory report for a patient taking clozapine (Clozaril) shows a white blood cell count of 3000 mm3 and a granulocyte count of 1500 mm3. The nurse should:
 
  a. report the laboratory results to the health care provider.
  b. give the next dose as prescribed.
  c. administer aspirin and force fluids.
  d. repeat the laboratory tests.

[Koolkid240]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Sympathetic-mediated vasoconstriction is essential for maintaining normal blood pressure in the upright position. Blockage of alpha1 receptors leads to vasodilation and orthostatic hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension may cause fainting and falls. Patients should be taught ways of minimizing this phenomenon.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
These laboratory values indicate the possibility of agranulocytosis, a serious side effect of clozapine therapy. These results must be immediately reported to the health care provider. The drug should be withheld because the health care provider will discontinue it. The health care provider may repeat the laboratory test, but, in the meantime, the drug should be withheld. Giving aspirin and forcing fluids are measures that are less important than stopping the administration of the drug.

[Mimi]

Excellent

[bblaney]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it