What should be monitored in a client receiving Haloperidol for the treatment of schizophrenia?

What should be monitored in a client receiving Haloperidol for the treatment of schizophrenia?

• A. Skin allergies related to medication
• B. Weight gain during treatment
• C. Sign of Tardive Dyskinesia
• D. General emotional response to therapy

Answer: (C)

In the context of a client receiving Haloperidol for the treatment of schizophrenia, monitoring for signs of Tardive Dyskinesia is critical. Haloperidol, which is an antipsychotic medication, can lead to this disorder, characterized by involuntary, repetitive body movements, particularly after prolonged use. Tardive Dyskinesia may not present immediately and can develop over time, sometimes even after the medication has been discontinued. Regular assessments for these symptoms are vital because early detection can help mitigate long-term effects and allow for timely intervention. The other aspects, while significant in the overall management of a patient on antipsychotic therapy, do not carry the same immediate risk profile as Tardive Dyskinesia. For instance, skin allergies related to the medication are less common. Although monitoring weight gain is useful since some antipsychotics can contribute to metabolic changes, it is not unique to Haloperidol. Likewise, general emotional responses to therapy are important to assess but do not directly highlight the specific risks associated with long-term Haloperidol use like Tardive Dyskinesia does.

In the context of a client receiving Haloperidol for the treatment of schizophrenia, monitoring for signs of Tardive Dyskinesia is critical. Haloperidol, which is an antipsychotic medication, can lead to this disorder, characterized by involuntary, repetitive body movements, particularly after prolonged use. Tardive Dyskinesia may not present immediately and can develop over time, sometimes even after the medication has been discontinued. Regular assessments for these symptoms are vital because early detection can help mitigate long-term effects and allow for timely intervention.

The other aspects, while significant in the overall management of a patient on antipsychotic therapy, do not carry the same immediate risk profile as Tardive Dyskinesia. For instance, skin allergies related to the medication are less common. Although monitoring weight gain is useful since some antipsychotics can contribute to metabolic changes, it is not unique to Haloperidol. Likewise, general emotional responses to therapy are important to assess but do not directly highlight the specific risks associated with long-term Haloperidol use like Tardive Dyskinesia does.