Which condition could be compromised in a client with prostatic hypertrophy taking antipsychotic medication?

Which condition could be compromised in a client with prostatic hypertrophy taking antipsychotic medication?

• A. Urinary retention
• B. Kidney stones
• C. Frequent urination
• D. Incontinence

Answer: (A)

Prostatic hypertrophy, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), often leads to urinary symptoms including difficulty initiating urination, weak urine flow, and increased urinary retention. In clients with this condition who are taking antipsychotic medications, the likelihood of urinary retention can be further exacerbated due to the anticholinergic effects of some antipsychotic drugs. These medications can interfere with normal bladder function by reducing detrusor muscle contractility, leading to an increased risk of urinary retention in individuals already predisposed to urinary obstruction from an enlarged prostate. This interaction highlights the importance of monitoring urinary function in clients prescribed antipsychotics, especially those with existing prostatic conditions, to mitigate any potential complications that may arise from both the underlying issue and the pharmacological treatment.

Prostatic hypertrophy, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), often leads to urinary symptoms including difficulty initiating urination, weak urine flow, and increased urinary retention. In clients with this condition who are taking antipsychotic medications, the likelihood of urinary retention can be further exacerbated due to the anticholinergic effects of some antipsychotic drugs. These medications can interfere with normal bladder function by reducing detrusor muscle contractility, leading to an increased risk of urinary retention in individuals already predisposed to urinary obstruction from an enlarged prostate.

This interaction highlights the importance of monitoring urinary function in clients prescribed antipsychotics, especially those with existing prostatic conditions, to mitigate any potential complications that may arise from both the underlying issue and the pharmacological treatment.