A nurse is collecting a health history on a client who has a diagnosis of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. The nurse recognizes that which of the following is an expected history associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome?

Choice A rationale:

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur as a severe adverse effect of antipsychotic medications, such as risperidone (Risperdal). Symptoms of NMS include flu-like symptoms (fever, muscle rigidity, and sweating) along with altered mental status, and autonomic dysregulation. It's crucial for the nurse to recognize this potentially fatal condition promptly and intervene appropriately.

Choice B rationale:

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder that is often a result of long-term use of antipsychotic medications, but it is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements of the face and other body parts. It doesn't typically present with flu-like symptoms or low blood pressure.

Choice C rationale:

Acute dystonia is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, often involving the muscles of the face, neck, and back. It usually occurs shortly after starting antipsychotic treatment. While it can cause discomfort, it doesn't present with flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure as described in the scenario.

Choice D rationale:

Pseudoparkinsonism, also known as drug-induced parkinsonism, is characterized by symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and rigidity. It doesn't typically cause flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure.

Choice A rationale:

Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is a potential physical symptom of alcohol withdrawal. When alcohol-dependent individuals suddenly stop or reduce their alcohol intake, it can lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, resulting in elevated heart rate.

Choice B rationale:

Tremors (shakes) are common during alcohol withdrawal due to the suppression of the central nervous system by alcohol. Abrupt cessation of alcohol can lead to overactivity in the nervous system, resulting in tremors.

Choice C rationale:

Hallucinations can occur during alcohol withdrawal and are usually visual or tactile in nature. These hallucinations are often referred to as alcoholic hallucinosis and can be distressing for the individual experiencing them.

Choice E rationale:

Seizures can be a severe consequence of alcohol withdrawal. Known as alcohol withdrawal seizures, these episodes can occur within the first 48 hours after cessation of heavy alcohol consumption and are attributed to the hyperexcitability of the central nervous system.

Choice D rationale:

Hypotension (low blood pressure) is not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal. In fact, alcohol withdrawal often leads to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate due to the hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system.