ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Related

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A nurse is teaching about benztropine to a client who has schizophrenia. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

  • A. This medication is given to help with extrapyramidal side effects
  • B. This medication is given to help with your depression
  • C. Benztropine helps alleviate your hallucinations
  • D. Benztropine is used to counteract your tachycardia
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correct Answer: A: This medication is given to help with extrapyramidal side effects.

Rationale:
1. Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication commonly used to manage extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) caused by antipsychotic medications.
2. EPS include symptoms like tremors, muscle stiffness, and restlessness, which can occur with antipsychotic use.
3. By blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain, benztropine helps alleviate these side effects.
4. Other choices are incorrect:
- B: Benztropine does not treat depression, as it is not an antidepressant.
- C: Benztropine does not directly address hallucinations, which are typically managed with antipsychotic medications.
- D: Benztropine does not specifically target tachycardia, which may be a side effect of other medications but not the primary indication for benztropine use.