A nurse is assessing a client with schizophrenia who is taking risperidone. Which of the following side effects should the nurse monitor for?

Choice A reason: Altered mental status, such as confusion or agitation, is a hallmark of serotonin syndrome due to excessive serotonin affecting the central nervous system. Persistent altered status indicates ineffective treatment, as resolution would show improved cognition, making this an incorrect indicator of recovery.

Choice B reason: Muscle rigidity is a symptom of serotonin syndrome, resulting from serotonin-mediated neuromuscular hyperactivity. Effective treatment, such as with cyproheptadine, reduces rigidity. Persistent rigidity suggests ongoing serotonin toxicity, making this an incorrect sign of treatment success in managing the condition.

Choice C reason: Serotonin syndrome causes hypertension due to autonomic dysregulation. A decrease in blood pressure indicates effective treatment, as interventions like serotonin antagonists stabilize autonomic function, normalizing blood pressure. This physiological improvement reflects resolution of the syndrome’s life-threatening effects, confirming treatment efficacy.

Choice D reason: Hyperpyrexia, or elevated temperature, is a critical symptom of serotonin syndrome due to serotonin’s effect on thermoregulation. Effective treatment lowers temperature toward normal. Persistent hyperpyrexia indicates unresolved toxicity, making this an incorrect indicator of successful treatment for serotonin syndrome.

Choice A reason: Hospice care is for terminally ill clients with a prognosis of six months or less, not Alzheimer’s disease, which is chronic and progressive. It does not address the partner’s need for temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities, making it an inappropriate referral.

Choice B reason: Respite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing time for errands or rest. Alzheimer’s caregiving is demanding, increasing caregiver stress and burnout risk. Respite services support the partner’s well-being, enabling continued care while addressing the neurological demands of Alzheimer’s management.

Choice C reason: A home health aide assists with daily activities but does not provide the partner with personal time away. While helpful for ongoing care, it does not directly address the partner’s expressed need for breaks, making it less appropriate than respite care.

Choice D reason: A social worker can coordinate resources but does not directly provide caregiver relief. While they may suggest respite care, the partner’s immediate need for time away is best met by respite services, which offer direct, temporary caregiving support.