The client who is recovering from schizophrenia has just seen the psychiatrist and tells the nurse that the Olanzapine (Zyprexa) is being reduced from 20 mg to 15 mg. This client asks the nurse why the Olanzapine is just not discontinued since the client has not had a hallucination for two months. Which nursing response to the client is correct?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gradual reduction of antipsychotic medication is recommended to prevent relapse and to avoid withdrawal symptoms. The nurse should explain to the client the importance of continuing medication as prescribed and the risks of suddenly discontinuing the medication. Checking serum levels and monitoring for signs of toxicity is important, but it is not the reason for reducing the medication dosage in this case. Choice A is incorrect because it is not appropriate for the nurse to recommend discontinuing medication without consulting the psychiatrist. Similarly, choice D is incorrect because the reason for reducing the medication dosage is not related to toxicity, but rather to prevent relapse and to adjust the medication to the client's current clinical status.

The Client Who Is Recovering from Schizophrenia Has Just Seen