ATI RN Mental Health Asn Related

Review ATI RN Mental Health Asn related questions and content

A nurse is caring for several clients who have mental health disorders at an assisted-living facility. Which of the following clients should the nurse determine needs to be seen by a provider immediately?

  • A. A client who is taking olanzapine and experiences dizziness when first standing up
  • B. A client who is taking chlorpromazine and reports vomiting twice
  • C. A client who is taking thioridazine and has daytime drowsiness
  • D. A client who is taking clozapine and has flu-like manifestations
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Clozapine is associated with a serious side effect called agranulocytosis, which can manifest as flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and malaise. Agranulocytosis is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications. Clients taking clozapine should be monitored closely for signs of infection. Choices A, B, and C describe common side effects of antipsychotic medications that are not typically considered emergencies. For example, dizziness upon standing (A), vomiting (B), and daytime drowsiness (C) are known side effects that may not require immediate medical attention unless severe or persistent. Therefore, the client taking clozapine with flu-like manifestations (D) should be seen by a provider immediately due to the potential seriousness of agranulocytosis.