Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 85%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has severe manifestations of schizophrenia and is medicated PRN for agitation with haloperidol. The nurse should assess the client for which of the following adverse effects?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Dysrhythmias. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication that can cause QT prolongation, leading to dysrhythmias such as torsades de pointes. The nurse should monitor the client's ECG for any signs of QT prolongation and dysrhythmias. Bleeding (A) is not a common adverse effect of haloperidol. Cataracts (B) are more associated with long-term use of antipsychotic medications. Pancreatitis (D) is not a common adverse effect of haloperidol.