ATI RN
Psychotherapeutic Drugs Quiz Questions
Question 1 of 5
Why is a combination of antipsychotic agents with benzodiazepines useful in initial treatment of the agitated patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The use of benzodiazepines allows lower dosages of antipsychotic agents to be used. Benzodiazepines assist in calming the agitated psychotic patient. Antipsychotic medications can be effective in a matter of minutes when injected. Benzodiazepines do not facilitate the increase of antipsychotic medications or treat extrapyramidal adverse effects associated with antipsychotic agents.
Question 2 of 5
Which sign(s) and symptom(s) may occur in neuroleptic malignant syndrome? (Select one that does not apply..)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is A) Bradycardia. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but serious reaction to antipsychotic medications. One of the hallmark signs of NMS is autonomic instability, which can manifest as fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate. Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is commonly seen in NMS due to the dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system. Option B) Hypertension is incorrect because NMS typically presents with autonomic instability leading to both hypo- and hypertension. However, hypertension is less common compared to hypotension in NMS. Option C) Severe extrapyramidal symptoms is incorrect because this is a characteristic of extrapyramidal side effects of antipsychotic medications, such as acute dystonia, akathisia, and Parkinsonism, but not specific to NMS. Option D) Alterations in consciousness is incorrect because altered mental status is a common feature of NMS, often presenting as confusion, delirium, or stupor, rather than specifically indicating alterations in consciousness. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of NMS is crucial for healthcare providers, especially those prescribing or administering psychotherapeutic drugs. Recognizing these symptoms promptly is essential for early intervention and management of this potentially life-threatening condition. This knowledge can help prevent delays in treatment and improve patient outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
Which adverse effect(s) may occur as a result of antipsychotic drug therapy? (Select one that does not apply..)
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of psychotherapeutic drugs, it is crucial for learners to understand the potential adverse effects associated with antipsychotic medications. In this case, option C, "Weight loss," is the correct answer that does not apply to antipsychotic drug therapy. The correct answer is right because weight gain, not weight loss, is a common adverse effect of many antipsychotic medications. Antipsychotic drugs often lead to metabolic changes, including increased appetite and disruptions in glucose and lipid metabolism, which can result in weight gain. Options A, B, and D (Acute dystonia, Akathisia, Neuroleptic malignant syndrome) are all potential adverse effects of antipsychotic drug therapy. Acute dystonia refers to sustained muscle contractions, akathisia is a feeling of inner restlessness and the need to move, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but serious condition characterized by fever, altered mental status, muscle rigidity, and autonomic dysfunction. Educationally, understanding the adverse effects of antipsychotic drugs is essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients effectively, manage side effects, and optimize treatment outcomes. This knowledge also underscores the importance of individualized treatment plans and patient education regarding potential medication effects.
Question 4 of 5
A patient admitted to a psychiatric facility is hallucinating, pacing, and acting highly suspicious. Based on this information, the nurse will take which action(s)?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Nursing interventions for patients with psychosis must be individualized and based on patient assessment data. The nurse should be open and direct when handling patients who are highly suspicious. High-protein, high-calorie foods are appropriate for the individual to eat while pacing or highly active. If physical restraints are necessary, they should be the least restrictive possible for the circumstances. Interactions should be minimized when perceptions are altered. Hallucinations should not be reinforced.
Question 5 of 5
The psychiatric nurse is educating an elderly patient and family about antipsychotic drug therapy. When providing this education, the nurse will include which statement(s)? (Select one that does not apply..)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rapid increases in dosages of antipsychotic medication will not reduce the antipsychotic response time but will increase the frequency of adverse effects. Tardive dyskinesia may be reversible in early stages, but it becomes irreversible with continued use of the antipsychotic medication. Reduction in hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorders often requires 6 to 8 weeks for a full therapeutic response to be achieved. Older patients should be observed for hypotension.