Author Question: A client is being evaluated for appropriate medication treatment for a new onset of psychosis. Which ... (Read 23 times)

Metfan725 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A client is being evaluated for appropriate medication treatment for a new onset of psychosis. Which information in the history would indicate that haloperidol (Haldol) is contraindicated for this client?

Standard Text: Select all that apply.
1. Current treatment for Parkinson disease
2. History of seizure disorder
3. Malnourished
4. Currently prescribed lithium
5. Drinks a six-pack of beer every day

Question 2

A client being treated with antipsychotic medication for schizophrenia is overheard telling family that the problem has improved because the new medication is given at a low dose. How should the nurse respond to this client's comment?

Standard Text: Select all that apply.
1. The new medication has a higher potency, and a lower dose is needed.
2. The symptoms can be controlled with a lower dose.
3. The other medication was not working.
4. It is always better to start a new medication with a lower dose.
5. The other medication was too much for you since your symptoms are almost gone.

sarajane1989 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1,2,4,5
Rationale 1: This medication is contraindicated in those with Parkinson disease.
Rationale 2: This medication is contraindicated in those with a seizure disorder.
Rationale 3: This medication is not contraindicated for a client who is malnourished.
Rationale 4: Because this medication and lithium have been implicated in brain damage in a few clients, the two medications should not be taken together.
Rationale 5: This medication should not be taken by clients with a history of alcoholism.
Global Rationale: Haloperidol would be contraindicated for those with Parkinson disease or a seizure disorder; concurrent use of lithium; and those with a history of alcoholism. This medication is not contraindicated for a client who is malnourished.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1,2
Rationale 1: High-potency drugs control symptoms at lower doses.
Rationale 2: High potency drugs are able to control symptoms with a lower dose.
Rationale 3: There is not enough information to determine if the previous medication was not effective at controlling symptoms.
Rationale 4: This is not necessarily true and does not address the potency of the new medication.
Rationale 5: There is not enough information to determine if the client's symptoms are almost gone.
Global Rationale: High-potency drugs control symptoms at lower doses. There is not enough information to determine if the previous medication was not effective at controlling symptoms. It is not always better to start a medication at a lower dose and this response does not address the potency of the new medication. There is not enough information to determine if the client's symptoms are almost gone.