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

Which condition involves acute changes in mental status and hyperthermia caused by medications?

1. Neurogenic shock

2. Serotonin Syndrome

3. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

4. Behcet's disease

The correct answer is: Serotonin Syndrome

The condition characterized by acute changes in mental status and hyperthermia due to medications is Serotonin Syndrome. This syndrome typically arises from an excess of serotonin in the central nervous system, often resulting from the use of certain drugs, particularly those that enhance serotonin levels, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or illicit drugs. Patients with Serotonin Syndrome may present with a range of symptoms that can include confusion, agitation, and altered mental status. Hyperthermia is a notable clinical feature, as excessive serotonin can disrupt the body's thermoregulation. Other symptoms can also include neuromuscular abnormalities like increased muscle tone, clonus, and tremors. This syndrome is typically recognized as a medical emergency due to its potential severity, which can lead to complications if not promptly identified and treated. Understanding the various medications that can precipitate this condition is crucial for healthcare providers, especially in critical care settings where polypharmacy is common. Neurogenic shock, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome, and Behcet's disease do not primarily present with the specific combination of acute mental status changes and hyperthermia induced predominantly by medications, distinguishing Serotonin Syndrome as the correct diagnosis