HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

Why is it important to monitor blood pressure in clients taking antipsychotic medications?

1. Orthostatic hypotension is a common side effect

2. Most cause elevated blood pressure

3. Provides sodium intake information

4. Indicates need for anti-parkinsonian drugs

The correct answer is: Orthostatic hypotension is a common side effect

Monitoring blood pressure in clients taking antipsychotic medications is crucial primarily because orthostatic hypotension, which is a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing, is a common side effect of these medications. Patients on antipsychotics may experience this condition due to the medications' effects on the autonomic nervous system, which can lead to dizziness, fainting, or falls when the client transitions positions from lying down to standing. Responsible management of these clients involves regular blood pressure assessments to detect any changes early, allowing for timely interventions. This proactive monitoring helps ensure patient safety, as untreated orthostatic hypotension can lead to serious complications. While some antipsychotics can elevate blood pressure, the primary concern is typically related to the risk of orthostatic changes. Sodium intake information and the indication of the need for anti-parkinsonian drugs are not directly relevant to the primary reason for monitoring blood pressure in this context.