Nursing Assessment of Patient Receiving Neuroleptics Mental status examination Vital signs, especially temperature Assess for EPS Monitor blood work. Treatment of NMS Recognize early signs and discontinue neuroleptics. Rehydration Monitor vital signs especially temperature, urine output, muscle tone, ability to swallow and ease of breathing. Medical treatment might include oral bromocriptine mesylate, biperiden hydrochloride or IV dantrolene sodium. ECT has also been used.
Recovery usually occurs within one week.
One third of patients are at risk of subsequent episodes when neuroleptics are resumed. Patients should probably not receive depot neuroleptics in the future. Monitor temperature several times a day as temperature can fluctuate. At risk of skin breakdown related to muscular rigidity, akinesis, incontinence, diaphoresis, sialorrhea. For Your Interest Malignant hyperthermia is a hereditary muscle disease which presents the same syndrome on exposure to anesthetic agents.