Monitoring for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) is crucial with antipsychotic administration as these movement disorders are common side effects. EPS include: acute dystonia (muscle spasms, often facial/neck) - treated with anticholinergics like benztropine; akathisia (restless inability to sit still) - may require dose reduction or beta-blockers; parkinsonism (tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia) - anticholinergics; and tardive dyskinesia (late-onset involuntary movements) - may be irreversible. Atypical antipsychotics have lower EPS risk but different side effects (metabolic syndrome). Nurses assess regularly using Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS). Other monitoring: neuroleptic malignant syndrome (fever, rigidity, autonomic instability - medical emergency); sedation; orthostatic hypotension; anticholinergic effects; and weight/metabolic changes. Patient education includes: reporting abnormal movements; not stopping abruptly; and managing side effects. Balancing therapeutic effects with side effect management improves adherence and quality of life.

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Zambia

• ivwananji siwale – 29 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies