A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for olanzapine. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following manifestations as an expected response to this medication?
A.
A decrease in resting blood pressure
B.
Decreased auditory hallucinations
C.
Control of seizure activity
D.
Increased energy level and involvement in activities
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. Decreased auditory hallucinations.
Explanation:
Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic commonly used to treat mental health disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It primarily affects neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, to help regulate mood, perception, and behavior. Here’s an in-depth look at how olanzapine works and why the correct response is the decrease in auditory hallucinations:
Mechanism of Action:
Olanzapine works by antagonizing dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. Dopamine hyperactivity, particularly in certain brain pathways, is linked to positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations (auditory or visual) and delusions. By blocking these receptors, olanzapine helps reduce the presence of these symptoms.
Expected Response:
- B. Decreased auditory hallucinations is the expected therapeutic outcome of olanzapine in individuals with schizophrenia or psychosis. Hallucinations, particularly auditory ones, are a hallmark of psychotic disorders, and reducing these is one of the primary goals of treatment with antipsychotics like olanzapine.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect:
- A. A decrease in resting blood pressure is not an expected or primary response. While olanzapine can cause orthostatic hypotension as a side effect, this isn’t a therapeutic goal of the medication.
- C. Control of seizure activity is not associated with olanzapine use. Medications like anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, valproic acid) are used to control seizures, not olanzapine.
- D. Increased energy level and involvement in activities might occur as part of an overall improvement in mood or functioning, but this is more typical in antidepressant therapy rather than the direct effect of olanzapine.
In summary, olanzapine’s primary role in treatment is to reduce symptoms of psychosis, like hallucinations, making B the correct answer.