Psychosis Symptoms and Dopamine Blockade

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What is the primary action taken to control symptoms in a patient exhibiting impaired communication, delusions, and hallucinations?

Blocking the activity of acetylcholine in the brain

Blocking the activity of dopamine in the brain (correct)

Increasing the production of norepinephrine in the brain

Blocking the activity of serotonin in the brain

Which of the following occurs when there is an excessive amount of dopamine in the brain?

Slows down nerve impulses in the brain stem

Results in memory loss

Causes strange thoughts and hallucinations (correct)

Improves communication abilities

What is a common side effect related to anticholinergic effects when providing symptomatic control to a patient?

Increased salivation

Decreased heart rate

Excessive sweating

Blurred vision (correct)

How should a nurse address constipation in a patient undergoing treatment for psychotic symptoms?

Order foods high in fiber and encourage increased physical activity Signup and view all the answers

What intervention should a nurse suggest for a patient experiencing urinary retention as a side effect of treatment?

Monitor intake and output closely Signup and view all the answers

How can a nurse help alleviate nausea and gastrointestinal upset in a patient receiving symptomatic treatment?

Administer tablets or capsules with food to minimize GI upset Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common side effect associated with antihistamines and benzodiazepines?

Drowsiness Signup and view all the answers

Which drug is not associated with tolerance and physical or psychological dependence among the listed medications?

Buspirone Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial nursing implication related to long-term therapy with antihistamines and benzodiazepines?

Educate the client about the potential for dangerous machinery operation Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom should a nurse immediately report to the physician when observing a client on antihistamines and benzodiazepines?

Easy bruising Signup and view all the answers

What should a nurse instruct a client to do in order to manage orthostatic hypotension caused by antihistamines and benzodiazepines?

Lie down immediately if feeling dizzy Signup and view all the answers

What should a nurse inform a client about regarding the onset of therapy with buspirone and subsiding of anxiety symptoms?

There is a lag time of 10 to 14 days between therapy onset and symptom improvement Signup and view all the answers

What should individuals avoid when taking sedative-hypnotic agents to prevent decreased effectiveness?

Consuming large amounts of beverages containing caffeine Signup and view all the answers

What symptoms should be reported to healthcare professionals when taking these agents?

Fever, sore throat, easy bruising, and skin rash Signup and view all the answers

What can happen if these agents are suddenly stopped?

Rapid eye movement (REM) or rebound with insomnia and other symptoms Signup and view all the answers

Which classification do drugs like Amitriptyline and Imipramine fall under?

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCA’s) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of tricyclic antidepressants like Amitriptyline?

Increase neurotransmitters serotonin or norepinephrine levels Signup and view all the answers

Why is it recommended to avoid excessive use of tricyclic antidepressants?

To prevent the onset of substance abuse or addiction Signup and view all the answers

What are the typical symptoms at serum levels of 1.5 to 2.0 meq/L of lithium?

Blurred vision, ataxia, tinnitus, persistent nausea and vomiting, severe diarrhea Signup and view all the answers

Why is lithium considered the treatment of choice for the manic phase of bipolar disorder?

It balances neurotransmitter activity in the brain controlling emotions. Signup and view all the answers

How is lithium excreted from the body?

By kidneys after reabsorption in the renal tubules Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of maintaining a constant sodium concentration in the brain with lithium treatment?

To regulate impulses along nerve cells and mood swings Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to monitor blood pressure and pulse during lithium treatment?

To detect hypotension, hypertension, and irregular heart rates Signup and view all the answers

At what therapeutic serum concentration range is lithium considered suitable for maintenance therapy?

0.6 to 1.2 meq/L Signup and view all the answers

What is the prevalence of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)?

0.1%-1% Signup and view all the answers

Which age group is more susceptible to developing Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)?

Persons under 20 and over 60 years of age Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action for treating Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)?

Discontinue antipsychotic agent and administer skeletal muscle relaxant or dopamine receptor agonist Signup and view all the answers

What should nurses evaluate in patients before therapy for Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)?

Blood pressure, CBC, Liver function test, vision test Signup and view all the answers

When is it recommended to give oral neuroleptics to aid sleep?

Within 1 or 2 hours of bedtime Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should be taken while preparing concentrated solutions of medications?

Avoid contact with concentrated solutions to prevent skin irritation Signup and view all the answers