Age Specific Care Competency Related

Review Age Specific Care Competency related questions and content

A patient has schizophrenia and is troubled by negative symptoms, muscle stiffness, and motor restlessness. His Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) is considering changing the patient's antipsychotic medication, haloperidol (Haldol, a typical or first generation antipsychotic drug). For planning purposes, which medication can the nurse assume that the APN will probably choose?

  • A. Chlorpromazine (Thorazine)
  • B. Clozapine (Clozaril)
  • C. Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
  • D. Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Olanzapine (Zyprexa). Olanzapine is an atypical or second-generation antipsychotic that is effective in treating both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. It also has a lower risk of causing extrapyramidal symptoms like muscle stiffness and motor restlessness compared to typical antipsychotics like haloperidol. Chlorpromazine (A) is a typical antipsychotic with similar side effects as haloperidol. Clozapine (B) is an atypical antipsychotic that is effective for treatment-resistant schizophrenia but is usually considered as a last resort due to its potential for serious side effects. Fluoxetine (D) is an antidepressant and not typically used as a first-line treatment for schizophrenia.