Question

A nurse is reviewing the medication administration record for a client who is experiencing adverse effects of chlorpromazine. The nurse should administer benztropine to relieve Which of the following adverse effects

a.Blurred visionBlurred vision is an anticholinergic effect that can occur with the use of chlorpromazine. However, benztropine is not used to relieve this adverse effect.
b.Orthostatic hypotensionOrthostatic hypotension can occur with the use of chlorpromazine. However, benztropine is not used to relieve this adverse effect.
c.Dry mouthDry mouth is an anticholinergic effect that can occur with the use of chlorpromazine. However, benztropine is not used to relieve this adverse effect.
d.Acute dystoniaMY ANSWERThe nurse should administer benztropine, an anticholinergic agent, to relieve acute dystonia, which is an extrapyramidal adverse effect of chlorpromazine.

Answer 1

The correct option is d.

The nurse should administer benztropine to relieve acute dystonia, an extrapyramidal side effect of chlorpromazine. Benztropine is an anticholinergic agent that helps reduce muscle spasms associated with acute dystonia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should administer benztropine, an anticholinergic agent, to relieve acute dystonia, which is an extrapyramidal side effect of chlorpromazine.

Acute dystonia includes muscle spasms and contractions, which can be very uncomfortable or painful for the patient. Benztropine works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, which can help reduce these muscle-related symptoms.

Chlorpromazine, being a prototype of phenothiazines, is used primarily in the management of psychiatric illnesses and exhibits its effects by blocking dopamine receptors.

However, it can also lead to adverse extrapyramidal side effects such as acute dystonia. While atropine is the standard anticholinergic drug used to manage symptoms related to excess acetylcholine, benztropine is more suitable in the context of extrapyramidal symptoms caused by antipsychotic medications.