Schizophrenia Q 14
How soon after chlorpromazine (Thorazine) administration should the nurse expect to see a client’s delusional thoughts and hallucinations eliminated?A. Several minutes
A. Several minutes
B. Several hours
C. Several days
D. Several weeks
Correct Answer: D. Several weeks
Although most phenothiazines produce some effects within minutes to hours, their antipsychotic effects may take several weeks to appear. It can take a few days for chlorpromazine to take effect. It’s difficult to determine how long one can expect to wait, as the medication affects each person differently. Ideally, the client should stay on an antipsychotic medication for four to six weeks before deciding whether to continue taking it in the long term. This gives the medication a chance to build up in the system and to begin delivering its full effects.
Option A: This medication is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, manic phase of bipolar disorder, severe behavioral problems in children). Chlorpromazine helps the client to think more clearly, feel less nervous, and take part in everyday life. It can reduce aggressive behavior and the desire to hurt self/others. It may also help to decrease hallucinations (hearing/seeing things that are not there). Chlorpromazine is a psychiatric medication that belongs to the class of drugs called phenothiazine antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.
Option B: Although the client may notice some medication effects soon after starting, for some conditions, it may take several weeks before they get the full benefit of this drug. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting a doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Also, the client may experience symptoms such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and shakiness.
Option C: If taking chlorpromazine to treat schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder, chlorpromazine may control the symptoms but will not cure the condition. Continue to take chlorpromazine even if feeling well. Do not stop taking chlorpromazine without talking to a doctor. The doctor will probably decrease the dose gradually. If the client suddenly stops taking chlorpromazine, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, and shakiness.