A patient who takes a traditional antipsychotic medication says, "I feel shaky and very warm." The patient is diaphoretic.What is the nurse's best first action when suspecting that a patient is experiencing neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse's best first action when suspecting that a patient is experiencing NMS is to take vital signs to assess for signs of fever, tachycardia, and hypertension. This will help the nurse determine if the patient's symptoms are consistent with NMS and if immediate medical intervention is necessary. Positioning the patient in semi-Fowler position, beginning oxygen, and placing the patient on one-to-one supervision may be appropriate interventions depending on the severity of the patient's symptoms, but they are not the best first action.

A Patient Who Takes a Traditional Antipsychotic Medication Says, "I