A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a client who has been taking haloperidol for 3 months. The client has a temperature of 39.5* C (103.4° F), blood pressure of 150/110 mm Hg, and muscle rigidity. Which of the following complications should the nurse suspect?

A. Rotating the staff who administer medications is generally counterproductive for a client with bipolar disorder or suspected non-adherence. Consistency in the nursing staff helps build a therapeutic alliance and trust, which are foundational for successful medication management. Frequent changes in personnel can lead to confusion, increased suspicion, and a lack of accountability in the nurse-client relationship.

B. Engaging the client in conversation immediately following the administration of medication is a subtle but effective clinical intervention. This strategy ensures the client has swallowed the medication by requiring vocalization, which prevents the client from "cheeking" or hiding the dose in the buccal cavity. It provides a non-confrontational method to verify ingestion while maintaining a positive and social therapeutic environment.

C. The use of sustained-release forms or long-acting injectable antipsychotics significantly improves adherence by reducing the frequency of administration. These formulations maintain a stable therapeutic serum concentration over a longer period, which is especially beneficial for clients who struggle with daily regimens. Reducing the burden of medication management minimizes the risk of relapse associated with missed doses.

D. Providing for once-daily dosing is a scientifically proven strategy to enhance medication compliance by simplifying the treatment schedule. Complexity in drug regimens is a primary barrier to adherence, particularly in psychiatric populations where cognitive symptoms may be present. A single daily dose is easier for the client to incorporate into a routine, thereby increasing the likelihood of long-term therapy maintenance.

E. Performing mouth checks following the administration of medication is a direct nursing intervention used to confirm that the client has truly swallowed the dose. This process involves a respectful but thorough inspection of the oral cavity, including under the tongue and along the gum lines. It is a standard safety protocol in mental health settings to ensure the delivery of prescribed psychiatric treatment.

A. "I'll be glad when I can stop taking this medicine.": This statement indicates a misunderstanding about phenytoin therapy. Phenytoin is typically a long-term medication used to prevent seizures, and it is not typically discontinued unless under the guidance of a healthcare provider. The nurse should clarify that stopping the medication abruptly can lead to rebound seizures and should emphasize the importance of continuing the medication as prescribed.

B. "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week.": This statement indicates appropriate understanding, as regular dental check-ups are important for individuals taking phenytoin due to the medication's potential side effect of gingival hyperplasia.

C. "I know that I cannot switch brands of this medication.": This statement demonstrates understanding, as different brands of phenytoin can have variations in bioavailability, which can affect seizure control. It is important for clients to remain consistent with the same brand or formulation unless directed otherwise by their healthcare provider.

D. "I will notify my doctor before taking any other medications.": This statement indicates understanding of the potential for drug interactions with phenytoin, as it is a hepatic enzyme inducer and can affect the metabolism of other medications. Clients should always consult their healthcare provider before taking any new medications or supplements to ensure compatibility with phenytoin therapy.