Psychopharmacology and Schizophrenia Study Guide

These flashcards cover important concepts and nursing actions related to psychopharmacology and schizophrenia, focusing on safety precautions, medication management, and cultural considerations in mental health care.

What can MAOIs cause if taken with tyramine-rich foods?

A hypertensive crisis.

What should nursing actions include for patients on MAOIs?

Provide detailed dietary education and emphasize strict avoidance of contraindicated foods.

How long may it take for SSRIs to reach full therapeutic effect?

Up to 4 weeks.

What is a key nursing action for patients taking SSRIs?

Reassure the patient and continue to monitor symptoms.

What are signs of lithium toxicity? Name at least two symptoms.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and confusion.

What is an important nursing action for lithium toxicity?

Evaluate for toxicity symptoms and notify the provider.

What are older adults more susceptible to when taking benzodiazepines?

Sedation, confusion, and falls.

What nursing actions should be taken for older adults on benzodiazepines?

Use fall precautions and monitor closely for cognitive changes.

What is clozapine associated with that requires monitoring?

Agranulocytosis; ANC must stay above 1000 µL.

What should a nurse do if a patient's ANC is below the threshold on clozapine?

Hold medication and notify the prescriber.

What do TCAs pose in terms of overdose risk?

They can be lethal, particularly in suicidal patients.

What should nurses provide upon discharge for patients on TCAs?

Only a one-week supply and ensure the patient has a follow-up plan.

What can alcohol do to the effects of anxiolytics?

Increase the sedative effect.

What is a life-threatening reaction to antipsychotics called?

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS).

What are the symptoms of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome?

Fever, muscle rigidity, and altered mental status.

What should be done when symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome are present?

Discontinue all serotonergic agents and notify the provider immediately.

What type of medication is buspirone?

A non-sedating anxiolytic that requires regular dosing.

What are the positive symptoms of schizophrenia?

Delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech.

Define hallucinations.

Sensory perceptions without external stimuli, involving any of the five senses.

What characterizes cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia?

Deficits in working memory, attention, speed of processing thoughts, verbal learning, reasoning, abstract thinking, and problem-solving.

What is anosognosia?

Lack of awareness of having an illness or disorder.

What is the main goal in assessing risk factors for schizophrenia?

To evaluate for positive and negative symptoms and disturbances in thought content and perception.

What are the phases of schizophrenia?

Premorbid, prodromal, active psychotic, and residual phases.

What are common nursing diagnoses for patients with schizophrenia?

Disturbed Sensory Perception, Disturbed Thought Processes, Risk for Violence, Impaired Verbal Communication, Self-Care Deficit.

What should nursing interventions establish with schizophrenic patients?

Trust and a therapeutic relationship.

What is the primary focus of nursing care for patients in manic episodes?

Basic needs such as sleep and nutrition, and injury prevention.

What important patient education should be provided about lithium?

Monitoring for side effects such as weight gain, tremors, nausea, and signs of toxicity.

What type of patients are at higher risk for suicide?

Individuals with bipolar disorder, especially during depressive episodes.

How should communication be conducted with non-English speaking clients?

Use certified interpreters, maintain eye contact with the client, speak clearly, and avoid jargon.

What should nurses understand about cultural identity?

Culture is complex and individualized; never generalize or assume based on ethnicity.

What can affect medical compliance in culturally different individuals?

Different cultural views on time and decision-making.

What type of support should be provided for clients who prefer spiritual healing?

Assist in connecting them with spiritual leaders or healers.

What is an important priority for nursing assessment in clients with cultural considerations?

Respect dietary preferences and cultural practices regarding health and illness.