ATI LPN
Test Bank for Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice
Chapter 11 : Psychopharmacology, Dietary Supplements, and Biologic Interventions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is prescribed medication for a psychiatric disorder. After 3 days, the patient tells the nurse that he or she has been constipated. Which instruction would the nurse give the patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Constipation, a common side effect of psychiatric medications, can be managed by increasing dietary fiber (fruits and vegetables) and hydration (water). High-protein foods may worsen constipation, a stool softener may be premature without dietary changes, and waiting for resolution dismisses the patient?s discomfort.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a 70-year-old psychiatric patient who has been prescribed a number of medications. When teaching the patient about the medications, which explanation would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Aging reduces liver function, decreasing metabolism of medications, which can lead to higher drug levels and potential toxicity in older adults. Stomach emptying slows with age, the GI system does not speed up, and circulation changes do not enhance drug delivery as described.
Question 3 of 5
During the stabilization phase of drug therapy for a patient who is hospitalized with a psychiatric disorder, which action would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The stabilization phase focuses on optimizing medication to control symptoms while monitoring for side effects. Assessing target symptoms and side effects ensures efficacy and safety. Tapering, relapse prevention, and loss of effect are addressed in later phases, such as maintenance or discontinuation.
Question 4 of 5
A patient has been prescribed clozapine for treatment of schizophrenia. Which of the following would the nurse include in the teaching plan for this patient and family?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Clozapine is associated with significant weight gain, a common side effect that should be included in patient education. Hypertension, breast engorgement, and dermatitis are not typical side effects of clozapine.
Question 5 of 5
A patient who has been taking clozapine for 6 weeks visits the clinic complaining of fever, sore throat, and mouth sores. The nurse notifies the patient?s physician because the nurse suspects which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Fever, sore throat, and mouth sores in a patient taking clozapine suggest agranulocytosis, a serious side effect involving a dangerous drop in white blood cells, requiring immediate medical attention. Anemia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and encephalitis have different symptom profiles.