Age Specific Patient Care Quizlet Related

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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 ______.

  • A. a dystonic reaction"¦administer PRN IM benztropine (Cogentin)
  • B. tardive dyskinesia"¦seek a change in the drug or its dosage
  • C. waxy flexibility"¦continue treatment with antipsychotic drugs
  • D. akathisia"¦administer PRN diphenhydramine (Benadryl) PO
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: a dystonic reaction"¦administer PRN IM benztropine (Cogentin).

1. Step: Identify the symptoms - The patient has head rotation, stiff fixed position, and lower jaw thrust forward, indicating dystonia.
2. Step: Understand dystonic reactions - Dystonia is an extrapyramidal side effect of antipsychotic medications like haloperidol.
3. Step: Choose appropriate treatment - Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication used to treat acute dystonic reactions.
4. Step: Administer the medication - IM benztropine is the correct route for acute treatment of dystonia.

Summary:
- Choice B (tardive dyskinesia) is incorrect because the symptoms described are acute and not consistent with the gradual onset of tardive dyskinesia.
- Choice C (waxy flexibility) is incorrect because it is a symptom of catatonia, not a side effect of ant