A nurse at the mental health center prepares to administer a scheduled injection of haloperidol decanoate (Haldol depot injection) to a patient with schizophrenia
As the nurse swabs the site, the patient shouts, "Stop, stop! I don't want to take that medicine anymore. I hate the side effects." Select the nurse's best initial action.
a. Stop the medication administration procedure and say to the patient, "Tell me more about the side effects you've been having."
b. Say to the patient, "Since I've already drawn the medication in the syringe, I'm required to give it, but let's talk to the doctor about skipping next month's dose."
c. Proceed with the injection but explain to the patient that other medications are available that may help reduce the unpleasant side effects.
d. Notify other staff members to report to the room for a show of force and proceed with the injection, using restraint if necessary.
ANS: A
Patients with mental illness retain their civil rights unless clear, cogent, and convincing evidence of dangerousness exists. The patient in this situation presents no evidence of being dangerous. The nurse, an as advocate and educator, should seek more information about the patient's decision and should not force the medication.
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