A family member of a patient who has been taking fluphenazine (Prolixin) for 3 months calls to report that the patient is exhibiting agitation and restlessness. The nurse learns that the patient's delusional thinking and hallucinations have stopped since taking the medication. The nurse will perform which action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is experiencing extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) which can occur with fluphenazine use. The nurse should suggest that the family member contact the provider to discuss an order for a medication to help with the agitation and restlessness, such as benztropine or diphenhydramine. Withholding the medication could lead to a return of the delusional thinking and hallucinations. Tolerance to these side effects may not necessarily occur and waiting for several more weeks for complete drug effects may not be practical for managing the agitation and restlessness.

A Family Member of a Patient Who Has Been Taking