A patient who is receiving the typical antipsychotic medication haloperidol is stepping back and forth from foot to foot and says that he feels very restless. This could be a manifestation of

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms are indicative of akathisia, which is a common side effect of typical antipsychotic medications like haloperidol. Akathisia is characterized by restlessness, pacing, and an inability to sit still. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but serious side effect of antipsychotic medications that presents with muscle rigidity, fever, and altered mental status. Increasing psychosis would not likely present as restlessness. An anticholinergic response might cause dry mouth, blurred vision, or constipation, but would not likely cause restlessness specifically.

A Patient Who Is Receiving the Typical Antipsychotic Medication Haloperidol