The nurse provides care to a patient admitted with a respiratory disorder. Which laboratory finding is most concerning?

A. Hypotension, urinary retention, and blurred vision: These symptoms are more characteristic of anticholinergic toxicity rather than serotonin syndrome.

B. Dizziness, lethargy, and headache: These symptoms are non-specific and do not define serotonin syndrome, which involves neuromuscular, autonomic, and mental status changes.

C. Hypomania, arrhythmias, and panic attacks:. While serotonin syndrome can cause agitation, it does not cause hypomania (a mild form of mania). Arrhythmias can occur but are not a hallmark symptom.

D. Confusion, restlessness, tachycardia, and diaphoresis: Serotonin syndrome is characterized by mental status changes (confusion, agitation), autonomic instability (tachycardia, hypertension, hyperthermia), and neuromuscular abnormalities (hyperreflexia, tremors, clonus).

A. Verifying the information with the patient's family members at the bedside: While family members can provide insight, the most critical step is gathering information directly from the patient about the reaction.

B. Placing an alert bracelet on the patient before leaving the unit: While this is necessary, the nurse should first confirm the details of the allergy.

C. Asking the patient to describe the reaction that occurs: The nurse must determine whether the reaction is a true allergy (e.g., anaphylaxis, rash, difficulty breathing) or an intolerance (e.g., nausea, drowsiness). This ensures appropriate precautions are taken.

D. Documenting the information on the patient's medical record: Documentation is crucial but should follow verification of the allergy details.