Your psychotic patient states my arms and legs are on fire. What ...

[dejastew]

Your psychotic patient states my arms and legs are on fire. What would be your best response?
 
  A.
  That's silly. There is nothing wrong with your legs.
  B.
  Does the fire travel from one side of your body to the other?
  C.
  That must be distressing. How do you stop it?
  D.
  I will get you some ice to put out the burning feeling.

Question 2

Which of the following is most important to monitor for your patient on Clozaril?
 
  A.
  White blood cell count
  B.
  Clozaril blood level
  C.
  Urine output
  D.
  Vision

[wshriver]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
This response acknowledges the distress and supports that the patient has some control over the distress. Responses B and D reinforce the delusion, and response A minimizes her experience.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Clozaril has been associated with agranulocytosis, a serious blood disorder that is diagnosed by low white blood cell count.

[dejastew]

Excellent

[mohan]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it