Detection of Suspected Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Three Case Examples

All antipsychotic (neuroleptic) medications, both atypical and conventional, can trigger the onset of an adverse and often fatal medication reaction, neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Thousands of patients die or are seriously harmed each year from NMS. Signs & symptoms may include irregular heart rate, increased temperature, diaphoreses, rigidity & significant confusion. NMS often remains undiagnosed and untreated in its early stages due to a lack of adequate training in identifying early signs and symptoms. Detection of Suspected Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Three Case Examples is the Winner of the Patient Care Best Film Award at the International Health and Medical Film Competition, sponsored by Time Inc. Health. Using three actual case examples, (Christine, Neal and Valerie), this program presents the unique and serious challenges that arise in detecting suspected NMS. In two of the cases, fatalities resulted from failure to identify signs & symptoms suggesting NMS. The third case example depicts the successful detection, diagnosis and treatment of full-blown NMS. This DVD is used nationwide in nursing schools, hospitals, psychiatric facilities and medical libraries to educate nurses and nursing students. Since DSM IV there have been no changes in the diagnosis and treatment of suspected NMS. All atypical & conventional neuroleptics can trigger NMS. REVIEWS: "Detailed case examples make this video especially useful for the training of in-patient and out-patient staff. The complexities of identifying suspected NMS are presented with extraordinary clarity and understanding." Ray Leidig, MD, former Commission of Mental Health, CO. "This video demonstrates how tragic outcomes can occur quickly when acute physical conditions are dismissed as mere psychiatric symptoms. Caregivers are provided with explicit training to prevent harm from NMS." Ron Bassman, Ph.D., Recipient Services, New York State Department of Mental Health.