A client has been taking thioridazine (Mellaril) for acute schizophrenia for a month when she comes to the hospital with a broken leg. The nurse notices that the client is slurring her words, keeps wiping her mouth with tissues to control the drooling, and has trouble holding a glass of water. The nurse documents the client's assessment and notifies the physician that the nurse suspects
A) alcohol abuse.
B) drug abuse.
C) extrapyramidal symptoms.
D) tardive dyskinesia.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Antipsychotic medications affect dopamine receptors, and muscular side effects known as extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) are common. Manifestations are tremor in the arms and legs, drooling, and spasms of the tongue, neck, or face.

A Client Has Been Taking Thioridazine (Mellaril) for Acute Schizophrenia