Question

The nurse is reinforcing teaching to the caregiver of a client with a new prescription for risperidone. Which statement indicates that the caregiver needs further instruction?

a) "I will give the medication with a meal to avoid stomach upset."
b) "It's important to monitor for any changes in mood or behavior."
c) "I should discontinue the medication if the symptoms improve."
d) "I will contact the healthcare provider if there are any side effects."

Answer 1

The statement indicating that the caregiver needs further instruction regarding risperidone administration is "I should discontinue the medication if the symptoms improve." This is incorrect as antipsychotics should not be stopped abruptly without a healthcare provider's advice.

Step-by-step explanation:

In response to the student's question on a caregiver's understanding of risperidone medication instruction, the statement that indicates the caregiver needs further instruction is: "I should discontinue the medication if the symptoms improve." It's crucial to emphasize that antipsychotic medications like risperidone should not be discontinued abruptly without consulting a healthcare provider, as it can lead to a relapse of symptoms and withdrawal effects. Continuous treatment and healthcare provider consultation are key in management with antipsychotic medications.

Taking the medication with a meal to avoid stomach upset, monitoring for changes in mood or behavior, and contacting the healthcare provider if there are any side effects are all correct statements indicating a good understanding of how to properly manage the medication. Hence, they show an appropriate comprehension of the caregiver's responsibilities when administering risperidone.