A nurse can anticipate anticholinergic side effects will be ...

[jc611]

A nurse can anticipate anticholinergic side effects will be likely when a patient is taking:
 
  a. lithium (Lithobid)
  b. buspirone (BuSpar)
  c. risperidone (Risperdal)
  d. fluphenazine (Prolixin)

Question 2

A patient begins therapy with a phenothiazine medication. What teaching should a nurse provide related to the drug's strong dopaminergic effect?
 
  a. Chew sugarless gum.
  b. Increase dietary fiber.
  c. Arise slowly from bed.
  d. Report muscle stiffness.

[Andromeda18]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Fluphenazine, a first-generation antipsychotic medication, exerts muscarinic blockade, resulting in dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention. Lithium therapy is more often associated with fluid balance problems, including polydipsia, polyuria, and edema. Risperidone therapy is more often associated with movement disorders, orthostatic hypotension, and sedation. Buspirone is associated with anxiety reduction without major side effects.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Phenothiazines block dopamine receptors in both the limbic system and basal ganglia. Dystonia is likely to occur early in the course of treatment and is often heralded by sensations of muscle stiffness. Early intervention with an antiparkinsonian medication can increase the patient's comfort and prevent dystonic reactions.