HESI Mental Health Related

Review HESI Mental Health related questions and content

A client with schizophrenia is being treated with haloperidol (Haldol) and begins to exhibit symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. What is the nurse's priority action?

  • A. Continue the medication and monitor for worsening symptoms.
  • B. Administer the next dose of haloperidol with food.
  • C. Report the symptoms to the healthcare provider immediately.
  • D. Educate the client about the side effects of haloperidol.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to report the symptoms to the healthcare provider immediately. Tardive dyskinesia is a serious side effect of antipsychotic medications, including haloperidol. Prompt reporting is crucial to evaluate the need for medication adjustment or change in treatment. Continuing the medication without intervention (choice A) can worsen the symptoms. Administering the next dose (choice B) is not appropriate when tardive dyskinesia is suspected. Educating the client (choice D) is important but not the priority when dealing with acute symptoms of tardive dyskinesia.