Health Care Utilization by Age Group Related

Review Health Care Utilization by Age Group related questions and content

A client on an antipsychotic medication develops a high fever, unstable blood pressure, and muscle rigidity. Her next dose of medication is due. The nurse should:

  • A. Administer the medication and take the vital signs again
  • B. Give a lower dose of the medication and take the blood pressure
  • C. Prepare to give the pm anticholinergic, benztropine (Cogentin)
  • D. Hold the medication and call the client's doctor immediately
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hold the medication and call the client's doctor immediately. This is the correct course of action because the client is exhibiting signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially life-threatening side effect of antipsychotic medications. Holding the medication is essential to prevent further complications. Calling the doctor is necessary to inform them of the situation and seek further instructions. Administering the medication (choice A) would exacerbate the symptoms, giving a lower dose (choice B) is not sufficient in this emergency situation, and administering an anticholinergic (choice C) is not the appropriate response for NMS.