2026) Advanced Pharmacology:
Psychopharmacology for the Psychiatric-
Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Questions & Answers100% Correct
[Grade A] – Chamberlain
Medications to treat psychosis are classified as either: -correct answer first generation
antipsychotics (FGAs) or second- generation antipsychotics (SGAs)
Antipsychotics are prescribed based on their: -correct answer -pharmacological
properties
-side effect profiles
-adverse effects according to the unique symptoms and needs of individuals across the
lifespan
First-generation antipsychotics (FGAs) -correct answer typical antipsychotics, non-
selectively blocks dopamine D2 receptors, specifically in mesolimbic pathway
-for the acute and chronic management of schizophrenia and psychosis
-Desired effect: improve (+) symptoms
-risk for developing hyperprolactinemia & extrapyramidal symptoms
Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPSs) -correct answer group of symptoms related to motor
control and coordination, caused by dopamine blockade or depletion in the basal ganglia
-dystonia
-akathisia
-parkinsonism
-bradykinesia
-tremors
-tardive dyskinesia
dystonia -correct answer Involuntary contractions of muscles; can cause pain
, NR 546 week 3 (Latest Update 2025 /
2026) Advanced Pharmacology:
Psychopharmacology for the Psychiatric-
Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Questions & Answers100% Correct
[Grade A] – Chamberlain
akathisia -correct answer Inner restlessness leading to repetitive motion (rocking,
tapping fingers).
parkinsonism -correct answer Combination of abnormal movements like those seen in
Parkinson's Disease, including tremor, slow movement, impaired speech, or muscle
stiffness
-akinesia, rigidity, tremor
bradykinesia -correct answer Slowness of movement
tardive dyskinesia -correct answer hyperkinetic movement disorder characterized by
abnormal facial and tongue movements and quick, jerky limb movements
-Can occur from long-term blockade of D2 receptors in the nigrostriatal DA pathway
-25% of clients will develop symptoms within 5 years of medication start
-Failure to discontinue typical antipsychotics prior to symptom onset can result in this
permanent condition
Hyperprolactinemia -correct answer when the serum prolactin level rises due to the
blockade of dopamine in the hypothalamus
-may be asymptomatic
-irregular menses
-male gynecomastia
-nipple discharge
-osteoporosis
, NR 546 week 3 (Latest Update 2025 /
2026) Advanced Pharmacology:
Psychopharmacology for the Psychiatric-
Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Questions & Answers100% Correct
[Grade A] – Chamberlain
-sexual dysfunction and infertility (both genders)
Neurolepsis -correct answer antipsychotic medication effects on psychotic clients, with
respect to cognition and behavior.
-Neurolepsis syndrome has three major features (PEA acronym)
Psychomotor slowing-extreme form of slowness or absence of motor movement
(nigrostriatal pathway)
Emotional quieting-worsening of (-) & cognitive symptoms (mesocortical pathways)
Affective indifference-worsening of affective symptoms (mesocortical pathway)
Additional adverse effects of excessive D2 receptor blockade (D2 antagonist actions)
include: -correct answer -cardiac concerns: QT prolongation, torsades de pointes, and
sudden cardiac death
-blood dyscrasias (neutropenia, leukopenia, and agranulocytosis)
-esophageal dysmotility, aspiration
-increased fall risk
imbalance of dopamine (DA) and acetylcholine (ACh) can result in anticholinergic effects
such as: -correct answer -dry mouth
-blurred vision
-racing heart
-constipation
-drowsiness
*due to muscarinic blockade