Comprehensive exams for Mental Health Q 94
The doctor has prescribed haloperidol (Haldol) 2.5 mg. I.M. for an agitated client. The medication is labeled haloperidol 10 mg/2 ml. The nurse prepares the correct dose by drawing up how many milliliters in the syringe?
A. 0.3
B. 0.4
C. 0.5
D. 0.6
Correct Answer: C. 0.5
Set up the problem as follows: 2.5mg/10mg = Xml/2ml X=0.5ml. Haloperidol is a first-generation (typical) antipsychotic medication that is used widely around the world. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of haloperidol is for schizophrenia, Tourette syndrome (control of tics and vocal utterances in adults and children), hyperactivity (which may present as impulsivity, difficulty maintaining attention, severe aggressivity, mood instability, and frustration intolerance), severe childhood behavioral problems (such as combative, explosive hyperexcitability), intractable hiccups. It is a typical antipsychotic because it works on positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions.
Option A: Haloperidol is used widely in different countries. It is available in various forms; the oral route is the most common. For the oral administration, it is available as a tablet form and oral concentrate form. It is also available in a nasal spray formulation. Haloperidol lactate is used as a short-acting parenteral solution available for use intramuscularly and intravenously. Haloperidol decanoate is available for long-acting intramuscular preparation.
Option B: Haloperidol in psychosis: In this instance, the oral and intramuscular forms can be used. For moderate symptomatology: 0.5 to 2 mg 2 to 3 times a day orally. In some resistant cases, up to 30 mg/day may be necessary. For prompt control of acute agitation, an intramuscular injection can be given as a 2 to 5 mg dose every 4 to 8 hours. The maximum intramuscular dose is 20 mg/day.
Option D: Haloperidol in schizophrenia: In moderately severe patients, dosing is 0.5 to 2 mg haloperidol orally 2 to 3 times a day. It should not exceed 30 mg daily in case of severe cases. To control acute agitation in a schizophrenic patient, dosing is 2 to 5 mg haloperidol intramuscularly every 4 to 8 hours.