Final answer:
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition triggered by antipsychotic medications, characterized by symptoms like fever, muscle rigidity, and autonomic instability, requiring immediate nursing management and supportive care.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a severe reaction that can occur in response to neuroleptic or antipsychotic medications. Drugs that can cause NMS include typical antipsychotics like haloperidol and fluphenazine, and atypical antipsychotics such as risperidone and olanzapine. Specific side effects of NMS include high fever, muscle rigidity, autonomic instability, and altered mental status. Complications may involve rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, and in severe cases, death. Nursing management for NMS involves early identification of symptoms, discontinuation of the offending drug, supportive care, and sometimes administration of medications such as bromocriptine or dantrolene. Effective communication and collaboration with the healthcare team are critical to manage and prevent potential complications of NMS.