LVN Mental Health Nursing 3

Question 1

A patient taking haloperidol (Haldol) develops severe muscle rigidity, high fever (104°F), and altered mental status. The LVN recognizes this as?

Accepted Answer

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)

Answer

NMS is a life-threatening emergency characterized by hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, autonomic instability, and altered consciousness.

Question 2

Which dietary restriction is ESSENTIAL for a patient prescribed phenelzine (Nardil), an MAOI antidepressant?

Accepted Answer

Avoid tyramine-rich foods such as aged cheese and red wine.

Answer

Tyramine combined with MAOIs causes a hypertensive crisis, which can be life-threatening.

Question 3

A patient taking lithium carbonate has a serum lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L. The LVN's BEST action is?

Accepted Answer

Withhold the dose and notify the RN immediately.

Answer

The therapeutic lithium range is 0.6–1.2 mEq/L; a level of 1.8 mEq/L indicates early toxicity requiring immediate notification.

Question 4

Which side effect of benzodiazepines causes the MOST concern when prescribed to older adult patients?

Accepted Answer

Fall risk secondary to excessive sedation

Answer

Benzodiazepines cause sedation and impaired coordination in older adults, significantly increasing their risk of falls and fractures.

Question 5

A patient taking clozapine (Clozaril) reports a sore throat and fever. The LVN's PRIORITY action is?

Accepted Answer

Withhold the medication and notify the RN immediately.

Answer

Sore throat and fever in a clozapine patient may indicate agranulocytosis, a life-threatening drop in white blood cells requiring immediate evaluation.

(LVN) Licensed Vocational Nurse Practice Test

(LVN) Licensed Vocational Nurse Practice Test

LVN Mental Health Nursing 3