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).
1. Dystonic reaction is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, causing abnormal posture or movements.
2. The patient's symptoms of head rotation, jaw thrust, and severe anxiety align with dystonic reaction.
3. Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication used to treat dystonic reactions by blocking acetylcholine in the brain.
4. Administering benztropine promptly can alleviate the symptoms and prevent complications.
Other choices are incorrect:
B: Tardive dyskinesia develops with long-term antipsychotic use, presenting as repetitive, involuntary movements. Seeking a change in drug or dosage is not appropriate for acute dystonic reaction.
C: Waxy flexibility is a symptom of catatonia, not related to the patient's presentation of dystonic reaction.
D: Akathisia is restlessness and agitation often caused by