Pharmacology Proctored ATI Practice Exam

What should a nurse inform a client starting fluphenazine?

1. Drink alcohol in moderation

2. "Sleepiness should subside within a week."

3. Increase salt intake

4. Take with milk to avoid stomach upset

The correct answer is: "Sleepiness should subside within a week."

Fluphenazine is an antipsychotic medication that may cause side effects such as sleepiness when first starting the medication. Option A is incorrect because drinking alcohol is not recommended while taking fluphenazine. Option C is incorrect because increasing salt intake may lead to high blood pressure, which is a potential side effect of fluphenazine. Option D is incorrect because fluphenazine should not be taken with milk as it can decrease the medication's effectiveness. The nurse should inform the client that sleepiness may subside within a week as this is a common side effect that typically improves with continued use of the medication.