A client with a long history of schizophrenia is being switched from a conventional antipsychotic medication to a newer, atypical antipsychotic. The client asks, "I wonder why I am being switched since I have not had hallucinations for years. The psychiatrist said something about negative symptoms." Which response by the nurse is correct?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Atypical antipsychotics work on both positive symptoms, such as hallucinations, as well as negative symptoms, such as lack of motivation. The client's psychiatrist may have wanted to switch to improve overall functioning and quality of life. Option A is incorrect as medications can be switched to target negative symptoms. Option B is incorrect as conventional antipsychotics are effective for positive symptoms but may not address negative symptoms. Option C is incorrect as negative symptoms refer to a lack of behaviors or experiences, not those that interrupt one's life.

A Client with a Long History of Schizophrenia Is Being