A nurse is providing teaching to a client diagnosed with schizophrenia and is prescribed haloperidol (Haldol). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
A.
“You may experience dizziness upon standing while taking this medication.”
B.
“This medication will decrease your symptoms of OCD.”
C.
“You can stop taking the medication if the side effects are bothersome.”
D.
“This medication may cause excessive salivation.”
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is:
A. “You may experience dizziness upon standing while taking this medication.”
Explanation:
A. “You may experience dizziness upon standing while taking this medication.”
Haloperidol (Haldol) is an antipsychotic medication primarily used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia. One common side effect of haloperidol is orthostatic hypotension, which can cause dizziness or lightheadedness when a person stands up quickly. This happens because haloperidol can affect blood pressure regulation. It is essential for patients to be aware of this potential side effect so they can take precautions, such as rising slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent falls or injury.
B. “This medication will decrease your symptoms of OCD.”
Haloperidol is not typically used for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is primarily used for managing symptoms of schizophrenia, such as delusions, hallucinations, and agitation. OCD treatment usually involves selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), not antipsychotics like haloperidol.
C. “You can stop taking the medication if the side effects are bothersome.”
Patients should not stop taking haloperidol or any other prescribed medication without consulting their healthcare provider. Abrupt discontinuation of antipsychotic medications can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of psychiatric symptoms. It is crucial to work with a healthcare provider to manage any side effects and to determine the best course of action if they become problematic.
D. “This medication may cause excessive salivation.”
Excessive salivation is not a common side effect of haloperidol. Instead, haloperidol may cause other side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. Understanding the specific side effects associated with haloperidol can help patients and caregivers manage them more effectively and seek appropriate medical advice when necessary.
Overall, providing accurate information about potential side effects, like dizziness upon standing, is crucial for patient safety and adherence to the prescribed treatment.