Question

You are administering haloperidol (Haldol®) to a patient with acute symptoms of Schizophrenia. What changes in the electrocardiogram (ECG) are possible as a result of this medication?

a. Depressed T wave
b. Prolonged QT interval
c. Prolonged PR interval
d. Elevated ST segment

Answer 1

Haloperidol (Haldol) can cause a prolonged QT interval on the ECG, increasing the risk of developing a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia called torsades de pointes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Haloperidol (Haldol) is an antipsychotic medication commonly used to treat acute symptoms of Schizophrenia. When administering this medication, it is possible for changes to occur in the electrocardiogram (ECG). One possible change is a prolonged QT interval. The QT interval represents the time it takes for the ventricles of the heart to depolarize and repolarize. Prolonged QT interval can increase the risk of developing a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia called torsades de pointes. It is important to monitor the ECG closely when administering haloperidol to ensure patient safety.