A patient taking aripiprazole (Abilify) for schizophrenia is experiencing signs of hypotension with certain activities since starting this medication. What should the nurse teach the patient?

Question

1. Avoid being outside in the heat of the day.
2. Avoid hot baths or hot showers.
3. Avoid caffeine-containing preparations.
4. Change positions slowly, especially from lying or sitting to standing.
5. Take frequent naps during the day.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1,2,4
Rationale 1: The patient should avoid any situation that might cause overheating, especially in hot weather, to reduce the risk of hypotension.
Rationale 2: Hot baths and hot showers should be avoided to decrease the chance of hypotension.
Rationale 3: Caffeine products are more likely to produce anxiety or palpitations.
Rationale 4: Changing positions slowly will help reduce orthostatic hypotension.
Rationale 5: Frequent naps will not affect the symptoms of hypotension.