ATI RN Mental Health Asn Related

Review ATI RN Mental Health Asn related questions and content

A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a client who has been taking haloperidol for 3 months. The client has a temperature of 39.5° C (103.4° F), blood pressure of 150/110 mm Hg, and muscle rigidity. Which of the following complications should the nurse suspect?

  • A. Agranulocytosis
  • B. Akathisia
  • C. Tardive dyskinesia
  • D. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). The client's symptoms of high fever, hypertension, and muscle rigidity are classic signs of NMS, a rare but life-threatening adverse effect of antipsychotic medications like haloperidol. NMS is a medical emergency that can lead to severe complications such as rhabdomyolysis, renal failure, and even death if not promptly recognized and treated. Agranulocytosis (A) is a potential side effect of some antipsychotic medications but typically presents with symptoms like fever and sore throat due to low white blood cell count. Akathisia (B) is a movement disorder characterized by restlessness and a compelling need to move, which is not consistent with the client's symptoms. Tardive dyskinesia (C) is a late-onset movement disorder associated with long-term antipsychotic use and typically presents with involuntary movements of the face and extremities, not fever