Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

For a client diagnosed with tardive dyskinesia, which critical symptom should the nurse monitor closely?

1. Severe anxiety

2. Choking

3. Nausea

4. Excessive sweating

The correct answer is: Choking

Monitoring for choking is crucial in a client diagnosed with tardive dyskinesia due to the involuntary movements affecting the face, tongue, and other parts of the body. These motor disturbances can lead to difficulties with swallowing and an increased risk of aspiration, which can result in choking. Tardive dyskinesia is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, and these symptoms can interfere with normal muscle coordination, especially in the mouth and throat area. By closely monitoring for choking, the nurse can intervene promptly should the client struggle with swallowing or exhibit signs of distress during eating or drinking, ultimately preventing serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia. Other symptoms like severe anxiety, nausea, or excessive sweating may be present in some patients but do not present the same immediate risk to life as choking does. Thus, the focus on choking aligns with the critical need for safety in managing clients with this condition.