Mock NCLEX RN Exam Related

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A 45-year-old client diagnosed with major depression is scheduled for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the morning. Which of the following medications are routinely administered either before or during ECT?

  • A. Thioridazine (Mellaril), lithium, and benztropine
  • B. Atropine, sodium brevitol, and succinylcholine chloride (Anectine)
  • C. Sodium, potassium, and magnesium
  • D. Carbamazepine (Tegretol), haloperidol, and trihexyphenidyl (Artane)
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Thioridazine (an antipsychotic drug), lithium (an antimanic drug), and benztropine (an antiparkinsonism agent) are generally administered to treat schizophrenic and bipolar disorders. Atropine (a cholinergic blocker), sodium brevitol (a short-acting anesthetic), and succinylcholine (a neuromuscular blocker) are administered either before or during ECT to counteract bradycardia and to provide anesthesia and total muscle relaxation. These are electrolyte substances administered to correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances in the body. Carbamazepine (an anticonvulsant), haloperidol (an antipsychotic), and trihexyphenidyl (an antiparkinsonism agent) are usually administered in psychiatric settings to control problems associated with psychotic behavior.