Question

As the first nurse to administer Risperdal (risperidone) to Mr. Warren, you are concerned that he will be suspicious about the medication.You tell Mr. Warren that you would like to discuss the medication with him. He replies that you have two minutes to tell him about it.Even though you are tempted to not say anything, you know that you are ethically bound to tell Mr. Warren some things about the medication.

In teaching Mr. Warren about Risperdal (risperidone), which of the following statements is best?

A. "This drug will help you feel less anxious and overwhelmed."
B. "This drug will help you concentrate on getting better."
C. "The drug will help you trust us."
D. "This drug will help you be more independent."

Answer 1

The best statement to explain Risperdal (risperidone) to Mr. Warren is that it will help him feel less anxious and overwhelmed, as it is an antipsychotic medication that works by antagonizing certain brain receptors, reducing psychotic symptoms and anxiety without heavily impairing cognitive functions.

Step-by-step explanation:

In teaching Mr. Warren about Risperdal (risperidone), the best statement to make is: "This drug will help you feel less anxious and overwhelmed." Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication that works by antagonizing D2 (dopamine) and serotonin type 2 receptors, as well as other receptors like alpha-adrenergic and histamine H1. This can ultimately result in reduced anxiety, agitation, and psychotic symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. Neuroleptic drugs, such as Risperdal, tend to reduce agitation and restlessness, and improve responsiveness and communication without significantly impairing cognitive functions.

Given the fact that it helps in managing psychotic symptoms and stabilizes mood, Risperdal can consequently assist Mr. Warren in focusing on his recovery process, which aligns with statement A. It is important to provide such information to the patient as it is part of informed consent and respects Mr. Warren's autonomy by allowing him to understand the purpose of the medication he is receiving.