A Patient with Schizophrenia Is Admitted to the Psychiatric Unit

A patient with schizophrenia is admitted to the psychiatric unit in an acutely disturbed,violent state.He is given several doses of haloperidol (Haldol) and becomes calm and approachable.During rounds the nurse notices the patient has his head rotated to one side in a stiffly fixed position.His lower jaw is thrust forward and he appears severely anxious.The patient has _________ ,and the nurse should _________.

A) a dystonic reaction…administer PRN IM benztropine (Cogentin)
B) tardive dyskinesia…seek a change in the drug or its dosage
C) waxy flexibility…continue treatment with antipsychotic drugs
D) akathisia…administer PRN diphenhydramine (Benadryl) PO

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