Question

Which of the following statements are correct and appropriate for a patient experiencing an accelerated heartbeat and muscle stiffness?

1) Aggressively treat hyperthermia, if present, with cooling blankets and ice packs.
2) Extreme hyperthermia is a symptom of NMS and requires immediate attention to prevent permanent brain damage.
3) Stop all antipsychotic medications immediately.
4) The antipsychotic medications are causing the symptoms associated with NMS that include hyperthermia, hyper rigidity and metabolic acidosis.

Answer 1

In cases of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), statements regarding aggressive treatment of hyperthermia with cooling methods and immediate cessation of antipsychotic medications are correct. Immediate medical intervention is critical in managing NMS to prevent severe complications like permanent brain damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of a patient experiencing accelerated heartbeat and muscle stiffness that may be symptomatic of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), which is a potential side effect of antipsychotic medications, the following statements need to be considered:

1. Aggressively treat hyperthermia, if present, with cooling blankets and ice packs - This is a correct approach as controlling body temperature is critical in cases of hyperthermia.
2. Extreme hyperthermia is a symptom of NMS and requires immediate attention to prevent permanent brain damage - This statement is correct as NMS can indeed cause dangerous elevations in body temperature that require urgent medical intervention.
3. Stop all antipsychotic medications immediately - In the context of NMS, this action is generally advisable to prevent worsening of the symptoms and facilitate recovery.
4. The antipsychotic medications are causing the symptoms associated with NMS that include hyperthermia, hyper rigidity and metabolic acidosis - NMS is indeed commonly associated with the use of antipsychotic medications, and these are typical symptoms of the syndrome.

Patients with NMS require immediate medical attention, and the treatment often includes the discontinuation of antipsychotic medications, active cooling measures, and supportive care to stabilize body functions.