Nokea
A patient receiving risperidone (Risperdal) reports severe muscle stiffness midmorning. During lunch he has difficulty swallowing food and speaking, and when vital signs are taken 30 minutes later, he is noted to be stuporous and diaphoretic, with a temperature of 38.8° C, pulse of 110 beats/min, and blood pressure of 150/90 mm Hg. The nurse should suspect _____ and should _____.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome. The patient is exhibiting symptoms consistent with NMS, a rare but serious side effect of antipsychotic medications like risperidone. The severe muscle stiffness, difficulty swallowing, altered mental status, diaphoresis, elevated temperature, and vital sign changes are classic signs of NMS. Treatment includes immediate cooling to lower the body temperature and transfer to the intensive care unit for close monitoring and supportive care.
Choice B: Anticholinergic toxicity does not fit the patient's presentation as there are no specific signs of anticholinergic toxicity such as dry mucous membranes, dilated pupils, or tachycardia.
Choice C: Relapse of psychosis is unlikely to present with the same constellation of symptoms, including altered mental status, fever, and vital sign changes.
Choice D: Agranulocytosis is characterized by a severe drop in white blood cells, leading to increased risk of infection, but it does