NCLEX RN Exam Review Answers Related

Review NCLEX RN Exam Review Answers related questions and content

A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is slow to respond and appears to be listening to unseen others. Which medication should a nurse expect a physician to order to address this type of symptom?

  • A. Haloperidol (Haldol) to address the negative symptom
  • B. Clonazepam (Klonopin) to address the positive symptom
  • C. Risperidone (Risperdal) to address the positive symptom
  • D. Clozapine (Clozaril) to address the negative symptom
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct medication to address the symptom described, where the client is slow to respond and appears to be listening to unseen others, is Risperidone (Risperdal). Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic that is commonly used to manage positive symptoms of schizophrenia. Positive symptoms can include hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Haloperidol (Haldol) and Clozapine (Clozaril) are typically used for addressing negative symptoms, such as lack of motivation or social withdrawal. Clonazepam (Klonopin) is a benzodiazepine primarily used for anxiety disorders and seizures, not for addressing symptoms of schizophrenia.