A client diagnosed with schizophrenia takes an antipsychotic agent daily. Which assessment finding should a nurse immediately report to the client’s attending psychiatrist?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Temperature of 104 F (40 C). A high temperature may indicate a potential serious side effect such as neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which is a life-threatening condition associated with antipsychotic use. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications. A: Respirations of 22 beats/minute - Normal respiratory rate is 12-20 breaths per minute, so 22 breaths per minute is slightly elevated but not an immediate concern. B: Weight gain of 8 pounds in 2 months - Weight gain is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications and may require monitoring and potential intervention, but it is not an immediate cause for concern. D: Excessive salivation - This is a common side effect of some antipsychotic medications but is not typically considered an urgent issue unless it is severe and causing distress to the client.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: tardive dyskinesia...administer the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale. Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements such as grimacing, lip smacking, and twisting motions. It is a known side effect of long-term antipsychotic use, like fluphenazine decanoate. Administering the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale can help assess the severity of the symptoms and guide further management. Incorrect options: A: Agranulocytosis is a serious side effect of some antipsychotic medications but does not present with the symptoms described. C: Tourette's syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements and vocalizations but is not typically associated with antipsychotic use. D: Anticholinergic effects can cause dry mouth and constipation but do not typically present with the specific movement symptoms described.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: the rate of hepatic metabolism and excretion of the drug. This is because pharmacokinetics refers to how the body processes a drug, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. The rate at which a drug is metabolized and excreted by the liver is crucial in determining its concentration in the body and its effectiveness. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly address the fundamental aspect of pharmacokinetics, which is the body's handling of the drug. Administering the drug, crossing the blood-brain barrier, and established tolerance levels are important factors but not the most critical aspect of pharmacokinetics as outlined by Dr. Alex Wodak.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pupil dilation. Sympathetic response involves the activation of the fight-or-flight response, leading to physiological changes to prepare the body for action. Pupil dilation occurs in response to sympathetic stimulation to enhance visual acuity. Increased saliva production (B) is a parasympathetic response for digestion. Decreased heart rate (C) and constricted airway (D) are both parasympathetic responses, as they are associated with relaxation and rest.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Seek genetic counseling." This is the best advice because genetic counseling can help the couple understand the risk of passing on bipolar disorder to their children and explore options for family planning. Option A is too extreme and does not consider other factors. Option C is vague and does not provide any useful guidance. Option D is incorrect as bipolar disorder has a genetic component. Genetic counseling will provide the couple with the necessary information and support to make informed decisions about their family planning.