A patient received maintenance doses of fluphenazine decanoate (Prolixin Decanoate) 25 mg IM every 2 weeks for 2 years. The clinic nurse notes the patient is grimacing and seems to be constantly smacking her lips
On the next clinic visit, the patient's neck and shoulders twist in a slow, snakelike motion. The nurse should suspect the presence of ________ and should __________. a. agranulocytosis…check the patient's complete blood count for changes
b. tardive dyskinesia…administer the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale
c. Tourette's syndrome…consult the patient's physician about a neuro evaluation
d. anticholinergic effects…consult the physician about possible medication changes
B
Tardive dyskinesia is a neurological condition induced by antipsychotic medications and involves involuntary rhythmic movements of the face, trunk, and limbs, including tongue thrusting, licking, blowing, rocking, and pill-rolling of the fingers. These symptoms usually persist even when the drug is discontinued. The scenario is not consistent with the other disorders mentioned: Agranulocytosis does not involve abnormal movements, the movements in Tourette's syndrome are intermittent (tics) rather than persistent and rhythmic, and anticholinergic effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and dry eyes and mucous membranes (which could explain the lip smacking but not the other motor changes).
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The population health nurse notes that the African American population of the United States has a higher incidence of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. What aspect of this population's diet should the nurse relate to these health problems?
1. High in fat and sugars. 2. Low in processed foods and fat. 3. Low in fiber-rich foods and exercise. 4. High in starchy vegetables and sugars.
When attempting to provide information to the parents of a child undergoing surgery, the nurse notes that the parents appear confused and do not seem to remember what they are being told. This may be because of the:
a. noisy environment. b. serious nature of surgery. c. increased level of parents' anxiety. d. developmental age of the child.
A client with allergies complains to the nurse that sneezing is bothersome. The nurse should explain to the client that:
1. the doctor can provide medication to decrease sneezing. 2. sneezing is detrimental to the client. 3. sneezing occurs because of irritation of cilia in the nares. 4. sneezing can be stopped with exercises.
As a manager, the development of your decision-making skills related to safe patient care is facilitated by:
a. Regular reflection on decisions. b. A culture of perfectionism. c. Recognition of who should be held responsible for individual errors. d. A culture of trust between the staff and you.