Test Bank for Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice - Schizophrenia and Related Disorders: Nursing Care of Persons with Thought Disorders Related

Review Test Bank for Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice - Schizophrenia and Related Disorders: Nursing Care of Persons with Thought Disorders related questions and content

A hospitalized client with schizophrenia is receiving antipsychotic medications. While assessing the client, the nurse identifies signs and symptoms of a dystonic reaction. Which agent would the nurse expect to administer?

  • A. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
  • B. Propranolol (Inderal)
  • C. Risperidone (Risperdal)
  • D. Aripiprazole (Abilify)
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Diphenhydramine (A), an antihistamine with anticholinergic properties, is commonly used to treat acute dystonic reactions caused by antipsychotics, relieving muscle spasms. Propranolol (B) treats akathisia, while risperidone (C) and aripiprazole (D) are antipsychotics that could worsen dystonia.