Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Test

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a serious and potentially life-threatening reaction typically associated with antipsychotic medications. It is characterized by severe muscle rigidity, fever, autonomic instability, and alteredmental status. The symptoms result from dopamine receptor antagonism, which can be intensified in hot weather due to increased metabolic demands and dehydration. In hot conditions, the body's ability to regulate temperature can be compromised, leading to an increased risk of hyperthermia. Patients on antipsychotics may already have some level of altered thermoregulation due to medication effects, thus making the combination of antipsychotic use and extreme heat particularly hazardous. Proper awareness of these factors is crucial for healthcare providers and patients, especially during warmer months, as it allows for early identification and treatment of NMS, which can significantly improve patient outcomes.