NCLEX-RN · Question #562
For the past several months, an elderly female client with Alzheimer's disease has experienced paranoia; hallucinations; and aggressive, disruptive behavior. The family is utilizing haloperidol as…
The correct answer is A. Tardive dyskinesia, which may be a side effect of antipsychotic medication. (A) Tardive dyskinesia is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications such as haloperidol. Discontinuing the medication can alleviate symptoms. (B) Although mild tremors are an early sign ofParkinson's disease, haloperidol must be discontinued first and the client further…
Question
For the past several months, an elderly female client with Alzheimer's disease has experienced paranoia; hallucinations; and aggressive, disruptive behavior. The family is utilizing haloperidol as needed to control her behavior. On nursing assessment, you note that the client demonstrates involuntary movements of the tongue and fingers. This may most likely indicate:
Options
- ATardive dyskinesia, which may be a side effect of antipsychotic medication
- BEarly symptoms of Parkinson's disease
- CA more advanced stage of Alzheimer's disease than previously experienced by the client
- DThe need to change her medication from haloperidol to another antipsychotic drug to lessen
How the community answered
(23 responses)- A74% (17)
- B4% (1)
- C9% (2)
- D13% (3)
Explanation
(A) Tardive dyskinesia is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications such as haloperidol. Discontinuing the medication can alleviate symptoms. (B) Although mild tremors are an early sign ofParkinson's disease, haloperidol must be discontinued first and the client further evaluated. (C) These symptoms do not necessarily indicate a more advanced stage of Alzheimer's disease. (D) Mostantipsychotic drugs are chemically similar and will produce the same side effects.
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