Author Question: A patient with schizophrenia has been taking haloperidol for several years. The care team and the ... (Read 28 times)

ericka1 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient with schizophrenia has been taking haloperidol for several years.

The care team and the patient have collaborated and chosen to transition the patient to an atypical antipsychotic in an effort to reduce adverse effects and maximize therapeutic effects. In order to reduce the patient's risk of extrapyramidal effects during this transition, the care team should do which of the following? A) Gradually taper the dose of haloperidol.
B) Have a 2- to 3-week drug holiday between stopping the haloperidol and starting the atypical antipsychotic.
C) Administer haloperidol and the atypical antipsychotic drug concurrently for 6 to 8 weeks.
D) Arrange for weekly electroconvulsive therapy during the time of transition.

Question 2

An adult patient with long-standing obesity has been deemed an appropriate candidate for treatment with phentermine. When teaching the patient to safely and effectively administer the drug, the nurse should convey what message to the patient?

A) Take phentermine with food, preferably at mealtimes.
B) Take the medication on an empty stomach.
C) Take the medication 15 minutes after meals to reduce fat absorption.
D) Take an increased dose of phentermine if a large meal is anticipated.

firehawk60 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
Feedback:
When discontinuing haloperidol, it is essential to taper the dosage to prevent extrapyramidal symptoms. If the medication is abruptly discontinued, the patient is at risk for this condition. A drug holiday would exacerbate symptoms, and ECT is not indicated. Concurrent administration of two drugs has the potential to exacerbate adverse effects.

Answer to Question 2

B
Feedback:
It is necessary to take phentermine on an empty stomach. Recipients should take single-dose drugs in the early morning; they should take multiple-dose preparations 30 minutes before meals, with the last dose of the day about 6 hours before going to bed. Doses are not increased when large meals are anticipated. Phentermine does not affect fat absorption.