A client with schizophrenia is prescribed risperidone. Which outcome would indicate the medication is having the desired effect?

Choice A reason: Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic that functions as a dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptor antagonist. By modulating these neurotransmitter pathways, it effectively diminishes positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as auditory hallucinations and delusional paranoia, which are the primary therapeutic targets for achieving clinical stabilization and safety. Choice B reason: Significant weight loss is not a desired therapeutic outcome of risperidone; in fact, the medication is frequently associated with metabolic side effects, including significant weight gain, hyperlipidemia, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Monitoring metabolic parameters is a standard nursing intervention during treatment with atypical antipsychotics. Choice C reason: While risperidone may have some sedative properties that could incidentally help with sleep, the absence of a need for sleep medication is not the specific clinical indicator used to determine if the antipsychotic is successfully treating the underlying primary symptoms of the client's schizophrenic disorder. Choice D reason: Increased energy and hyperactivity are not desired outcomes and could actually indicate a worsening of symptoms or the development of adverse effects like akathisia. The goal of risperidone is to achieve behavioral stability and symptom reduction rather than inducing a state of heightened psychomotor activity or agitation.