Mental Health Nursing Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

If a patient exhibits symptoms of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), the recommended action is to stop the medication and seek medical care. NMS is a potentially life-threatening condition often associated with the use of antipsychotic medications. Symptoms may include severe muscle rigidity, fever, altered mental status, and autonomic instability.

Prompt cessation of the antipsychotic medication is critical to prevent further complications and to initiate appropriate medical treatment. Seeking emergency medical care is essential, as management may involve supportive measures, hydration, cooling techniques to address hyperthermia, and in some cases, medications to reverse the symptoms.

Increasing the dosage of antipsychotics would exacerbate the patient's condition, as more medication would compound the risks associated with NMS. Switching to another antipsychotic without discontinuing the current one could also lead to continued symptoms and complications associated with NMS. Ignoring the symptoms is dangerous, even if the patient seems stable, because NMS can rapidly progress and result in severe health consequences. Thus, halting the medication and obtaining medical attention is the only appropriate response in the presence of NMS symptoms.