A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who is taking risperidone. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
A.
“This medication may increase your blood pressure.”
B.
“Flu-like symptoms are an expected adverse effect of this medication.”
C.
“Avoid becoming overheated while taking this medication.”
D.
“Muscle twitches can occur the first few weeks while taking this medication.”
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. “Avoid becoming overheated while taking this medication.”
Explanation:
Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism. It works by altering the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, to help stabilize mood and behavior.
Why overheating is a concern:
Clients taking risperidone are at risk of impaired thermoregulation, a condition where the body struggles to maintain its core temperature. This is because risperidone can interfere with the body’s ability to sweat, a key mechanism used for cooling the body down. If the client becomes overheated (such as during strenuous physical activity, hot weather, or high fever), their body may not cool itself effectively, increasing the risk of heatstroke. Therefore, the nurse should advise clients to avoid becoming overheated, stay hydrated, and seek a cool environment when needed.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A. “This medication may increase your blood pressure.”
Risperidone is more likely to cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing. This side effect can cause dizziness or fainting. Therefore, clients should be advised to rise slowly from sitting or lying positions, rather than being concerned about high blood pressure. - B. “Flu-like symptoms are an expected adverse effect of this medication.”
Flu-like symptoms are not common with risperidone. While some individuals may experience mild symptoms such as fatigue or body aches, these are not expected adverse effects. If flu-like symptoms develop, they could indicate other issues such as infection or a rare side effect, and medical advice should be sought. - D. “Muscle twitches can occur the first few weeks while taking this medication.”
Muscle twitches or tremors may indicate extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), which are potential side effects of risperidone, but they are not expected or typical in the first few weeks. Persistent or worsening muscle twitching can signal the development of EPS or tardive dyskinesia, which should be reported to the healthcare provider for management.
In summary, educating the client on the importance of avoiding overheating while on risperidone is essential to prevent dangerous complications such as heatstroke.