Question

A nurse in a psychiatric unit is caring for a client who is delusional, paranoid, and has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which type of medication is commonly used to treat schizophrenia? a. H2 inhibitors b. Cholinesterase inhibitors c. Antipsychotics d. Antiemetics

Short answer

c. Antipsychotics

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Condition

Understand that the condition specified is schizophrenia, which is a serious mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, paranoia, and disturbed thinking.

Review Medication Options

Analyze the listed medication options given in the question: a. H2 inhibitors b. Cholinesterase inhibitors c. Antipsychotics d. Antiemetics

Match Medication to Condition

Determine which type of medication is commonly used to treat schizophrenia based on medical knowledge. Schizophrenia is primarily treated with antipsychotic medications, which help manage symptoms like delusions and paranoia.

Eliminate Incorrect Options

Eliminate the other medications: a. H2 inhibitors are typically used to reduce stomach acid. b. Cholinesterase inhibitors are generally used to treat Alzheimer’s disease. d. Antiemetics are used to prevent nausea and vomiting.

Confirm the Correct Answer

Given the analysis, the correct medication type to treat schizophrenia is c. Antipsychotics.

Key concepts

schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia often appear to have lost touch with reality.
This is because they experience symptoms like:

• Delusions: False beliefs, such as thinking they are someone famous
• Hallucinations: Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there
• Paranoia: An irrational distrust of others
• Disturbed thinking: Disorganized thoughts and speaking

Usually, the onset of schizophrenia occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for those affected.

antipsychotic medications

Antipsychotic medications are primarily used to treat conditions like schizophrenia. These medications help manage symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and paranoia.
Commonly used antipsychotic medications include:

• Risperidone
• Olanzapine
• Quetiapine
• Aripiprazole

Antipsychotics work by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin.
There are two main types of antipsychotics:

• Typical (first-generation): Older medications like Haloperidol that primarily target dopamine receptors.
• Atypical (second-generation): Newer medications like Risperidone that target both dopamine and serotonin receptors.

Side effects can include weight gain, drowsiness, and tremors.
It is crucial for patients to follow their prescribed medication regimen and consult their healthcare provider about any issues.

psychiatric nursing

Psychiatric nursing is a specialized field of nursing that focuses on caring for patients with mental health disorders.
Nurses in this field play a critical role in both the treatment and support of patients with conditions like schizophrenia.
Key responsibilities include:

• Medication administration: Ensuring patients take their prescribed antipsychotic medications
• Monitoring: Observing patients for side effects and overall mental health
• Patient education: Teaching patients and their families about schizophrenia and the importance of adherence to treatment
• Therapeutic communication: Building trust and encouraging open dialogue with patients

Psychiatric nurses need to be compassionate, patient, and skilled in crisis intervention.
Their goal is to help patients achieve a better quality of life through effective management of their mental health condition.