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A client who has been taking chlorpromazine (Thorazine) for several months presents in the ED with extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) of restlessness, drooling and tremors. What medication will the nurse expect the physician to order?

A. Paroxetine (Paxil)
B. Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
C. Benztropine (Cogentin)
D. Lorazepam (Ativan)

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The nurse would expect Benztropine (Cogentin) to be ordered for a patient presenting with extrapyramidal symptoms caused by long-term use of chlorpromazine. This medication helps in managing motor side effects induced by antipsychotic drug therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client who has been taking chlorpromazine (Thorazine) for several months presents in the ED with extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) of restlessness, drooling, and tremors. Chlorpromazine is an antipsychotic medication used primarily to treat serious psychiatric illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The medication, however, can cause side effects that affect the motor control regions of the nervous system, leading to EPS, which mimic the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

In this case, the nurse would expect the physician to order Benztropine (Cogentin), as it is an anticholinergic drug that can be used to treat EPS symptoms caused by antipsychotic medications. Benztropine works by restoring the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain and is often used as an adjunctive treatment for managing the motor side effects associated with antipsychotic drug therapy.

User Luke Madhanga
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