Question

Nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving haloperidol. Nurse should identify which of the following findings as an adverse effect of the medication?

A) Hypertension.
B) Bradycardia.
C) Increased salivation.
D) Elevated mood.

Answer 1

Increased salivation is an adverse effect of haloperidol due to its action on the basal nuclei affecting dopamine activity, leading to extrapyramidal symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should identify increased salivation as an adverse effect of the medication haloperidol. Haloperidol is a neuroleptic drug that works on the dopaminergic system within the basal nuclei of the brain, affecting dopamine activity. This can result in movement disorders and extrapyramidal side effects, which are part of haloperidol side effects. These side effects manifest as parkinsonism-like symptoms, which include tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia, and often increased salivation. Other side effects may include agitation, anxiety, sleep problems, nausea, vomiting, abnormal heart rhythms, and low blood pressure.

Patient B, with symptoms like weight loss, profuse sweating, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping, would not be exhibiting these due to haloperidol, but rather suggests a condition such as hyperthyroidism or another systemic issue. Finally, a patient arriving in the emergency department with low blood pressure, confusion, and thirst could be experiencing shock or severe dehydration, requiring prompt medical attention.