A patient with schizophrenia has been taking an oral FGA for 1 week. The patient has been taking the drug daily in two divided doses. The individual complains of daytime drowsiness
The patient's family reports a decrease in the person's hostility and anxiety but states that the patient remains antisocial with disordered thinking. What will the nurse tell the patient and the family?
a. An increased dose of the drug may be needed.
b. Intramuscular dosing may be needed.
c. Some symptoms take months to improve.
d. The entire dose may be taken at bedtime.
ANS: C
When patients begin therapy with antipsychotic medications, some symptoms resolve sooner than others. During the first week, agitation, hostility, anxiety, and tension may resolve, but other symptoms may take several months to improve. It is not necessary to increase the dose in the first week. IM dosing is indicated for patients with severe, acute schizophrenia and for long-term maintenance. Sedation is normal, and once an effective dose has been determined, the entire dose can be taken at bedtime, but not in the initial days of therapy.
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