A client who has been treated with an antipsychotic agent develops an elevated blood pressure, dyspnea, and an elevated temperature. Which disorder should the nurse suspect has occurred?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described are indicative of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which is a rare but potentially life-threatening adverse reaction to antipsychotic medication. Symptoms include elevated blood pressure, dyspnea, elevated temperature, along with muscle rigidity and altered mental status. Akathisia and extrapyramidal side effects are more common but less severe adverse reactions to antipsychotic medication, and acute dystonia is a rare but less severe adverse reaction characterized by sudden and painful muscle spasms.

A Client Who Has Been Treated with an Antipsychotic Agent