Which antipsychotic drug requires that the nurse advises the client to refrain from skin contact with the liquid formulation?

Which antipsychotic drug requires that the nurse advises the client to refrain from skin contact with the liquid formulation?

• A. Haldol
• B. Thorazine
• C. Risperdal
• D. Abilify

Answer: (B)

The correct choice is based on the properties of the drug in question. Thorazine, or chlorpromazine, is an older antipsychotic that is available in a liquid formulation. This liquid form can be absorbed through the skin, which can pose risks if proper precautions are not taken. Therefore, nurses instruct clients and caregivers to avoid direct skin contact with this formulation to prevent potential adverse effects or systemic exposure. In contrast, the other medications listed, such as Haldol, Risperdal, and Abilify, do not have this requirement related to skin contact with their liquid forms. While all antipsychotic medications can have significant side effects and require careful handling, the advisability to avoid skin contact is particularly specific to Thorazine due to its chemical properties and the potential for transdermal absorption. This consideration underscores the importance of proper medication administration techniques and patient education in psychiatric nursing.

The correct choice is based on the properties of the drug in question. Thorazine, or chlorpromazine, is an older antipsychotic that is available in a liquid formulation. This liquid form can be absorbed through the skin, which can pose risks if proper precautions are not taken. Therefore, nurses instruct clients and caregivers to avoid direct skin contact with this formulation to prevent potential adverse effects or systemic exposure.

In contrast, the other medications listed, such as Haldol, Risperdal, and Abilify, do not have this requirement related to skin contact with their liquid forms. While all antipsychotic medications can have significant side effects and require careful handling, the advisability to avoid skin contact is particularly specific to Thorazine due to its chemical properties and the potential for transdermal absorption. This consideration underscores the importance of proper medication administration techniques and patient education in psychiatric nursing.