A nurse is educating a client about common adverse effects of antipsychotic medications. Which of the following is NOT a common adverse effect?

This statement indicates a serious adverse effect that should be reported to the healthcare provider because it may suggestneuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal condition that can occur with antipsychotic medications.NMS is characterized by muscle rigidity, altered mental status, tachycardia, sweating, fever, and autonomic instability.It requires immediate medical attention and discontinuation of the antipsychotic medication.

Choice A is wrong because “I have been feeling a bit dizzy when I stand up.” This statement indicates a common adverse effect of antipsychotic medications calledorthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure when changing positions.It is usually mild and transient, and can be managed by rising slowly and avoiding dehydration.

Choice B is wrong because “I have been experiencing dry mouth and constipation.” This statement indicates another common adverse effect of antipsychotic medications calledanticholinergic effects, which are caused by the blockade of acetylcholine receptors in the peripheral nervous system.They include dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, constipation, and tachycardia.They are usually mild and can be managed by drinking fluids, chewing sugarless gum, using artificial tears, and increasing dietary fiber.

Choice C is wrong because “I have noticed a slight increase in my blood sugar levels.” This statement indicates a possible adverse effect of antipsychotic medications calledhyperglycemia, which is an elevation of blood glucose levels.It is more common with atypical antipsychotics than with typical antipsychotics, and it may increase the risk of diabetes mellitus.It is usually monitored by regular blood tests and controlled by diet, exercise, and medication if needed.

Antipsychotic medications can cause various adverse effects depending on the type and dose of the medication. This statement indicates that the client understands that antipsychotic drugs are not free of side effects and that they may vary in severity and type.

Choice A is wrong because antipsychotic medications do have adverse effects, such as extrapyramidal effects, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, tardive dyskinesia, and agranulocytosis.

Choice B is wrong because antipsychotic medications can have more than mild adverse effects, such as drowsiness.Some of the adverse effects can be serious and life-threatening, such as neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Choice D is wrong because antipsychotic medications do not only cause serious adverse effects.Some of the adverse effects can be mild and manageable, such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation.

Normal ranges for blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and white blood cell count are:

• Blood pressure: 120/80 mmHg

• Pulse: 60-100 beats per minute

• Temperature: 36.5-37.5°C (97.7-99.5°F)

• White blood cell count: 4.5-11 x 10^9/L