The nurse is administering medications to a client experiencing acute psychosis. The client’s medication orders include haloperidol 50 mg PO bid, benztropine 1 mg PO daily, and zolpidem 10 mg PO at bedtime daily. The nurse administers benztropine to address which of the following?

Choice A reason: Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication used to treat extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), such as dystonia, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia. Facial movements, especially involuntary ones like grimacing or lip smacking, are common EPS associated with haloperidol. Benztropine helps reduce these symptoms by restoring the balance between dopamine and acetylcholine in the brain. Choice B reason: Tactile hallucinations are sensory disturbances and are not treated with benztropine. They are managed by antipsychotic medications addressing the underlying psychosis. Choice C reason: Pacing back and forth may be a sign of akathisia, but it can also reflect agitation or anxiety. While benztropine may help with akathisia, facial movements are a more direct indication for its use. Choice D reason: Psychomotor retardation is a slowing of physical and emotional responses, often seen in depression or severe psychosis. Benztropine does not treat this symptom and may actually worsen it due to its sedating effects.