Question

A client is newly diagnosed with schizophrenia and will be treated with a first generation anti-psychotic. The nurse knows this client is at risk for extrapyramidal effects (EPS).

Discuss the assessments and potential plan of care for EPS.

Answer 1

The assessment which has to be done on this patient are

• Assess for akathisia like irritability and being restless
• Signs and symptoms of Parkinson's or abnormal gait
• Dystonia where patient exhibits continuous involuntary movements ,may develop spasm
• Jerky movements to rule out tardive dyskinesia
• Decreased movement to rule out bradikinesia

The potential plan of care are

• Monitor the effect of the drug and titre the dose as per order
• Provide assistance in daily activities
• Follow fall prevention protocol
• Teach and encourage to do simple range of motion exercises
• Administer anticholinergic, beta blockers to decrease the EPS as per order
• Health educate the client