Question

A nurse on an inpatient unit is caring for a client who has schizophrenia and recently started taking risperidone. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a. Encourage the client to stop taking the medication if side effects occur.
b. Monitor for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
c. Discontinue the medication immediately if the client reports feeling better.
d. Suggest that the client abruptly stop taking the medication if weight gain occurs.

Answer 1

The nurse should monitor for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome in a client taking risperidone and discontinue the medication immediately if any signs occur.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should monitor for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome in a client who recently started taking risperidone. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur as a side effect of antipsychotic medications like risperidone. Symptoms of NMS include high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic instability. If any signs of NMS occur, the nurse should discontinue the medication immediately and seek medical help.