A Patient Who Is Taking a First-Generation Antipsychotic (FGA) Drug

question 9

Multiple Choice

A patient who is taking a first-generation antipsychotic (FGA) drug for schizophrenia comes to the clinic for evaluation. The nurse observes that the patient has a shuffling gait and mild tremors. The nurse will ask the patient's provider about which course of action?

• A) Administering a direct dopamine antagonist
• B) Giving an anticholinergic medication
• C) Increasing the dose of the antipsychotic drug
• D) Switching to a second-generation antipsychotic drug

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Definitions:

Apnea

A temporary cessation of breathing, especially during sleep, which can lead to various health complications.

Excessive Sleepiness

A condition where an individual experiences significant and persistent drowsiness despite adequate or even prolonged night-time sleep.

Circadian Rhythms

Biological processes that follow an approximately 24-hour cycle, affecting sleep, behavior, and physiological processes in living organisms.

Melatonin

A hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep and wake cycles, often used as a supplement to treat sleep disorders.