Question

A nurse in a mental health clinic is planning care for a client who has a new prescription for olanzapine. Which of the following interventions should the nurse identify as the priority?

A. Monitor blood glucose levels regularly.
B. Encourage the client to engage in regular physical activity.
C. Administer the medication with meals.
D. Monitor for extrapyramidal side effects.

Answer 1

The nurse should prioritize monitoring blood glucose levels regularly for a client taking olanzapine to monitor for potential side effects related to weight gain and diabetes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should identify monitoring blood glucose levels regularly as the priority intervention for a client who has a new prescription for olanzapine.

Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as neuroleptics. One of the potential side effects of olanzapine is weight gain, which can increase the risk of developing diabetes or worsening existing diabetes.

By regularly monitoring blood glucose levels, the nurse can detect any changes or abnormalities and take appropriate action, such as adjusting the dosage or prescribing additional medications, to ensure the client's safety and well-being.