When a patient with schizophrenia is taking haloperidol, what is a priority assessment for the nurse?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitoring for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome. This is because neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a potentially life-threatening side effect of haloperidol, characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction. It requires immediate medical intervention. Assessing for tardive dyskinesia (A) is important but not as urgent as monitoring for neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Checking for signs of depression (C) is relevant but not a priority when the patient is at risk of a serious adverse reaction. Monitoring changes in appetite (D) is less critical than assessing for neuroleptic malignant syndrome, as it is a common side effect that does not pose an immediate threat to the patient's life.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because a structured and low-stimulation environment can help reduce the intensity of the manic episode by providing predictability and minimizing triggers. This intervention promotes safety and stability for the patient. Option B may exacerbate the symptoms by overstimulating the patient. Option C may overwhelm the patient with information during a manic episode. Option D is risky as unsupervised time can lead to impulsive behaviors and potential harm.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times. This option acknowledges the patient's need for hand washing while also setting boundaries. By allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times, the nurse can help establish a routine and gradually reduce the excessive hand washing behavior. Encouraging the patient to stop washing hands (A) may increase anxiety and resistance. Ignoring the behavior (C) can reinforce it. Setting strict limits (D) may cause distress and worsen the OCD symptoms. Option B strikes a balance between addressing the patient's needs and promoting healthier behaviors.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lithium. Lithium is often prescribed for patients with bipolar disorder because it helps stabilize mood by regulating neurotransmitter activity. It is a mood stabilizer that is effective in reducing manic episodes and preventing relapses. Sertraline (A) is an antidepressant and can potentially trigger manic episodes in patients with bipolar disorder. Haloperidol (C) is an antipsychotic used for treating psychotic symptoms but not specifically for stabilizing mood in bipolar disorder. Diazepam (D) is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety and not indicated for mood stabilization in bipolar disorder.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Nausea. Fluoxetine, an SSRI antidepressant, commonly causes gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea. This is due to its effect on serotonin levels in the gut. Weight gain (A) and increased appetite (B) are less common side effects of fluoxetine. Dry mouth (D) is more commonly associated with tricyclic antidepressants, not SSRIs. Monitoring for nausea is crucial to ensure patient compliance and well-being.