Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a life-threatening reaction that can occur in response to antipsychotic medications, characterized by a few critical symptoms. One of the hallmark signs of NMS is lead pipe rigidity, which refers to severe muscle rigidity that is often perceived as a constant, tense contraction of the muscles. This rigidity is not only significant in its presence but also helps differentiate NMS from other conditions such as serotonin syndrome, which might present with other types of muscle rigidity.

Lead pipe rigidity occurs alongside other symptoms of NMS, such as hyperthermia, autonomic dysregulation (like changes in blood pressure and heart rate), and altered mental status. Recognizing lead pipe rigidity is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of this syndrome, as it can indicate the need for immediate medical intervention to prevent complications.

The other options presented may occur in different clinical scenarios but are not typical of NMS. Reduced appetite and excessive salivation may be associated with various psychiatric conditions or medication side effects, but they are not core symptoms of NMS. Uncontrollable laughter is more indicative of a different pathology, such as pseudobulbar affect, rather than NMS. Thus, understanding the significance of lead pipe rigidity is essential for