A patient with schizophrenia is admitted to the psychiatric unit in an acutely disturbed, violent state. He is given several doses of haloperidol (Haldol) and becomes calm and approachable. During rounds the nurse notices the patient has his head rotated to one side in a stiffly fixed position. His lower jaw is thrust forward and he appears severely anxious. The patient has _____, and the nurse should _____.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: A dystonic reaction"¦administer PRN IM benztropine (Cogentin). This patient is exhibiting symptoms of acute dystonia, a extrapyramidal side effect of haloperidol. Dystonic reactions are characterized by sustained muscle contractions causing abnormal postures. Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication that helps alleviate these symptoms by blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Administering benztropine is the appropriate treatment for acute dystonia.
Summary of other choices:
B: Tardive dyskinesia"¦seek a change in the drug or its dosage - Tardive dyskinesia is a side effect that occurs after long-term antipsychotic use, not acutely like in this case.
C: Waxy flexibility"¦continue treatment with antipsychotic drugs - Waxy flexibility is a symptom of catatonia, not a side effect of antipsychotic medications