Population Specific Care Related

Review Population Specific Care related questions and content

A client who received chlorpromazine (Thorazine) for 15 years to treat schizophrenia developed tardive dyskinesia as evidenced by tongue thrusting and chewing motions. The physician discontinued the chlorpromazine and prescribed Seroquel (quetiapine). As a result of this change, the nurse should carefully monitor for:

  • A. Development of pseudoparkinsonism
  • B. Development of dystonic reactions
  • C. Improvement in tardive dyskinesia
  • D. Worsening of anticholinergic symptoms
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Improvement in tardive dyskinesia. Tardive dyskinesia is a side effect of long-term antipsychotic use, such as chlorpromazine. Quetiapine (Seroquel) is a second-generation antipsychotic with a lower risk of causing tardive dyskinesia. By discontinuing chlorpromazine and switching to quetiapine, the client is less likely to experience worsening of tardive dyskinesia symptoms. Monitoring for improvement in tardive dyskinesia is essential in this situation.

Choices A, B, and D are incorrect:
A: Development of pseudoparkinsonism is less likely with quetiapine compared to first-generation antipsychotics like chlorpromazine.
B: Dystonic reactions are acute side effects and are not typically associated with switching to quetiapine.
D: Anticholinergic symptoms are not directly related to tardive dyskinesia