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A nurse is assessing a client who has schizophrenia and is taking chlorpromazine. Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report the provider?

A. Temp
B. Headache
C. Constipation
D. Dry mouth

User Bhanupriya
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

A significant increase in temperature is a priority to report when a client is taking chlorpromazine as it may indicate Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options given (Temp, Headache, Constipation, Dry mouth), the priority for the nurse to report to the provider when a client is taking chlorpromazine, an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, would be a significant increase in temperature. This could be indicative of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a life-threatening condition associated with the use of neuroleptic drugs such as chlorpromazine. In contrast, headache, constipation, and dry mouth are common side effects of the medication and though they should be managed, are not typically as urgent as signs of NMS.

Clinically, NMS is characterized by severe muscle rigidity, fever, altered mental status, and autonomic instability. It is a distinguishable and imminent risk associated with antipsychotic medications and requires immediate medical attention. Therefore, an increased temperature (Temp) is a critical sign that must be reported promptly to the healthcare provider for the necessary intervention, potentially averting severe complications.

User Layton Everson
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