Medication Related Emergencies

Question 1

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Answer 1

• hyperthermia
• muscle rigidity
• change in mental status
• hypertension/hypotension/fluctuating vitals
• tachycardia
• tachypnea or hypoxia
• tremor
• incontinence
• creatinine phosphokinase elevation (evidence of muscle injury)
• leukocytosis (increase in WBC)

Question 2

High Risks for NMS

Answer 2

• agitated
• physically exhausted
• dehydration
• parenteral or higher doses
• recent change in dose

Question 3

Anticholinergic Crisis

Answer 3

• elevated temperature
• parched mouth
• burning thirst
• hot dry skin
• decreased secretions
• widely dilated eyes
• increased HR
• constipation
• hyper/hypotension
• flushed
• anxiety, agitation, delirium, confusion
• hallucinations, psychotic symptoms
• seizures
• “hot as a hare, blind as a bat, mad as a hatter, dry as a bone”

Question 4

Serotonin Syndrome

Answer 4

• due to increased serotonergic tone
• rapid onset
• hyperreflexia, tremors, jerky movements, diaphoresis, confusion