Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 83%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing a client who has schizophrenia and is taking risperidone. Which of the following adverse effects of the medication is the priority finding for the nurse to report to the provider?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Irregular pulse. This is the priority finding to report because it could indicate a potentially serious cardiac side effect of risperidone. Irregular pulse can lead to serious complications like arrhythmias or cardiac arrest. Constipation (A), visual disturbances (B), and dry mouth (C) are common side effects of risperidone but are not typically life-threatening or urgent. Reporting irregular pulse promptly allows for timely intervention to prevent serious cardiac events.