The CMA is administering an antianxiety medication to a client. Monitoring side effects is the responsibility of which member of the health care team?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of administering antianxiety medications, the correct answer is A) Nurse. Nurses are at the frontline of patient care and are responsible for monitoring the client's response to medication, including side effects. Nurses are trained to assess and recognize adverse reactions, vital signs, and overall well-being of the client, making them the most qualified member of the healthcare team to monitor for side effects. Option B) CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) is not typically responsible for monitoring side effects of medications. CMAs are valuable members of the healthcare team, but their scope of practice usually does not include the comprehensive monitoring of medication side effects. Option C) Physician prescribes the medication but may not always be directly involved in monitoring the client for side effects. Physicians rely on the nursing staff to provide feedback on the client's response to medication. Option D) Therapist focuses on providing psychotherapy and emotional support to the client. While therapists play a crucial role in mental health treatment, monitoring medication side effects falls within the scope of nursing practice. Educationally, understanding the roles and responsibilities of each member of the healthcare team in medication administration is essential for providing safe and effective client care. Nursing students and healthcare professionals need to grasp the importance of accurate medication administration and monitoring to ensure positive client outcomes. This knowledge helps in promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and optimizing patient safety.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of administering psychotherapeutic drugs, it is crucial for nurses to have a deep understanding of their responsibilities. Option C, "Adjusting medication dosages according to therapeutic levels," is the correct answer that does not apply. Nurses are not authorized to adjust medication dosages without the explicit direction of a prescriber. This responsibility falls under the domain of the prescribing healthcare provider, typically a psychiatrist or a physician. Options A, B, and D are essential responsibilities of nurses administering psychotherapeutic drugs. Monitoring and evaluating the client's response to the medication (Option A) is critical to ensure the drug's effectiveness and to watch for any adverse reactions. Continually assessing the client's condition (Option B) is essential for detecting any changes or side effects that may occur during the course of treatment. Assisting in the coordination of the client's care (Option D) involves collaborating with other healthcare team members to provide comprehensive and holistic care to the client. In an educational context, it is vital for nurses to recognize the boundaries of their role in medication administration. Understanding the legal and ethical implications of adjusting medication dosages without proper authorization is crucial to ensure patient safety and quality care. By adhering to these responsibilities, nurses contribute to the safe and effective delivery of psychotherapeutic drugs in clinical practice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should teach signs and symptoms of side effects, provide information about the drug, and have the client and significant other verbally explain when it is necessary to call the physician. The nurse should never provide written information about decreasing dosages without contacting the physician.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is C) Apathy. Clients diagnosed with Type I-Positive Schizophrenia, which is characterized by positive symptoms like delusions and hallucinations, often do not exhibit apathy as a prominent symptom. Apathy is more commonly associated with negative symptoms of schizophrenia, which are more prevalent in Type II schizophrenia. Positive symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations, are effectively treated with antipsychotic medications, hence clients with Type I schizophrenia respond better to these drugs. Educationally, understanding the distinction between positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia is crucial for healthcare providers working with individuals with mental health conditions. This knowledge helps in accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and better outcomes for patients. It also underscores the importance of tailoring treatment approaches based on the specific symptomatology of each individual.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Extrapyramidal. When antipsychotic medications are taken, they can lead to extrapyramidal side effects, which are abnormal movements involving the extrapyramidal system in the brain. Akathisia, which is a feeling of inner restlessness and the inability to sit still, and pseudo-Parkinson symptoms, such as tremors and muscle rigidity, are common manifestations of these side effects. Option B) Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome is incorrect because it is a rare but potentially life-threatening side effect characterized by fever, altered mental status, muscle rigidity, and autonomic dysfunction, rather than the movement-related symptoms mentioned in the question. Option C) Autonomic Nervous System is incorrect because it is responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and digestion, not movement-related side effects like akathisia and pseudo-Parkinson symptoms. Option D) Cardiovascular is incorrect as it pertains to the heart and blood vessels, not the movement-related side effects associated with antipsychotic medications. Educationally, understanding the side effects of antipsychotic medications, including extrapyramidal symptoms, is crucial for healthcare providers, particularly those working in mental health settings. Recognizing these symptoms early can help in managing and mitigating them effectively to improve patient care and outcomes. It also highlights the importance of monitoring patients closely when initiating or changing antipsychotic medications to ensure their safety and well-being.