Test Bank for Essentials of Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing: A Communication Approach to Evidence-Based Care, 4e 4th Edition - Biological Basis for Understanding Psychopharmacology Related

Review Test Bank for Essentials of Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing: A Communication Approach to Evidence-Based Care, 4e 4th Edition - Biological Basis for Understanding Psychopharmacology related questions and content

A nurse should assess a patient taking a medication with anticholinergic properties for inhibition of what function?

  • A. Parasympathetic nervous system
  • B. Sympathetic nervous system
  • C. Reticular activating system
  • D. Medulla oblongata
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter found in high concentration in the parasympathetic nervous system. When acetylcholine action is inhibited by anticholinergic drugs, parasympathetic symptoms such as blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention appear. The functions of the sympathetic nervous system, the reticular activating system, and the medulla oblongata are not affected by anticholinergic medications.