Why is a combination of antipsychotic agents with benzodiazepines ...

[colton]

Why is a combination of antipsychotic agents with benzodiazepines useful in initial treatment of the agitated patient? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Antipsychotics are not effective for 2 days.
  b. Benzodiazepines allow for lower dosages of antipsychotic agents to be used, thereby decreasing serious adverse effects seen with high-dose therapy.
  c. It assists in calming the psychotic patient.
  d. It allows for rapid increase in dosing of the antipsychotic agents to expedite treatment of hallucinations.
  e. It effectively treats extrapyramidal adverse effects associated with antipsychotic agents.

Question 2

A patient admitted to a psychiatric facility is hallucinating, pacing, and acting highly suspicious. Based on this information, the nurse will take which action(s)? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Use the most restrictive restraints available to subdue the patient.
  b. Be open and direct when handling the patient.
  c. Encourage a variety of interactions with others.
  d. Provide high-protein, high-calorie foods.
  e. Reinforce hallucinations.

[gstein359]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B, C
The use of benzodiazepines allows lower dosages of antipsychotic agents to be used. Benzodiazepines assist in calming the agitated psychotic patient. Antipsychotic medications can be effective in a matter of minutes when injected. Benzodiazepines do not facilitate the increase of antipsychotic medications or treat extrapyramidal adverse effects associated with antipsychotic agents.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B, D
Nursing interventions for patients with psychosis must be individualized and based on patient assessment data. The nurse should be open and direct when handling patients who are highly suspicious. High-protein, high-calorie foods are appropriate for the individual to eat while pacing or highly active. If physical restraints are necessary, they should be the least restrictive possible for the circumstances. Interactions should be minimized when perceptions are altered. Hallucinations should not be reinforced.

[colton]

Excellent

[bulacsom]

TYSM