Question

the nurse is teaching a patients spouse about the medications used to regulate neurotransmitters that have been linked to positive symptoms of schizophrenia. which information should be included in the patient teaching on this topic?

positive symptoms are related to a deficit of dopamine in the mesocortical area of the brain.
positive symptoms are related to an excess of dopamine in the mesocortical area of the brain.
positive symptoms are related to a deficit of dopamine in the mesolimbic area of the brain.
positive symptoms are related to an excess of dopamine in the mesolimbic area of the brain.

Explanation:

Analyze the pathophysiology of positive symptoms in schizophrenia

Positive symptoms of schizophrenia (such as hallucinations and delusions) are associated with hyperfunction of dopamine neurotransmission in the mesolimbic pathway. Specifically, an excess of dopamine in the mesolimbic area of the brain is linked to these symptoms.

Compare with negative symptoms and other pathways

In contrast, negative symptoms (such as avolition and flat affect) and cognitive symptoms are associated with a deficit of dopamine in the mesocortical pathway.

Evaluate the given options

• Option 1: Incorrect. Deficit in mesocortical is associated with negative/cognitive symptoms.
• Option 2: Incorrect. Excess in mesocortical is not the primary link for positive symptoms.
• Option 3: Incorrect. Deficit in mesolimbic is not the cause of positive symptoms.
• Option 4: Correct. Positive symptoms are related to an excess of dopamine in the mesolimbic area.

Answer:

• Positive symptoms are related to a deficit of dopamine in the mesocortical area of the brain.
• Positive symptoms are related to an excess of dopamine in the mesocortical area of the brain.
• Positive symptoms are related to a deficit of dopamine in the mesolimbic area of the brain.
• Positive symptoms are related to an excess of dopamine in the mesolimbic area of the brain. (Correct answer)