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The physician prescribes haloperidol (Haldol), a first-generation antipsychotic drug, for a patient with schizophrenia who displays delusions, hallucinations, apathy, and social isolation. Which symptoms should most be monitored to evaluate the expected improvement from this medication?

  • A. Talking to himself, belief that others will harm him
  • B. Flat affect, avoidance of social activities, poor hygiene
  • C. Loss of interest in recreational activities, alogia
  • D. Impaired eye contact, needs help to complete tasks
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because haloperidol is primarily used to target positive symptoms of schizophrenia such as delusions and hallucinations. Monitoring improvements in symptoms like talking to himself and belief that others will harm him will indicate the effectiveness of the medication. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they focus on negative symptoms or general social withdrawal, which are less likely to show significant improvement with haloperidol, a first-generation antipsychotic drug that is more effective for positive symptoms. Monitoring these symptoms may not directly reflect the medication's effectiveness in treating the primary symptoms of schizophrenia in this case.