American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

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What does Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome primarily manifest as?

Hypothermia and hypotension
Lead pipe rigidity, fever, tachycardia, psychiatric changes
Diarrhea and dermatitis
Miosis and respiratory depression

The correct answer is: Lead pipe rigidity, fever, tachycardia, psychiatric changes

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition often associated with antipsychotic medications. It primarily manifests with a characteristic set of symptoms known as the "lead pipe" rigidity, which is a type of muscular stiffness that can resemble the rigidity of a lead pipe. This symptom is often accompanied by hyperthermia, or significantly elevated body temperature, which occurs due to the body's inability to regulate temperature properly under stress. In addition to rigidity and fever, tachycardia, which refers to an increased heart rate, is commonly seen as the body reacts to the physiological stress of the syndrome. Psychiatric changes, such as confusion, altered mental status, or agitation, can also occur as part of this syndrome due to the impact on the central nervous system. The choice that includes all these hallmark signs accurately reflects the typical clinical presentation of NMS. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for timely recognition and intervention, as prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications associated with this syndrome.