What effect might a nurse expect from antipsychotic medication administration related to movement?

Antipsychotic medications are primarily used to manage symptoms of psychosis, including hallucinations and delusions. However, one important aspect of these medications is their potential to cause movement-related side effects, known as extrapyramidal effects.

Extrapyramidal effects include a range of movement disorders such as tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and akathisia (a feeling of inner restlessness and an uncontrollable need to be in constant motion). These effects occur due to the medications blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which can disrupt normal motor function.

Understanding this is critical for nursing practice because it allows nurses to monitor patients closely for signs of these side effects, which may require management or adjustments in medication. Recognizing extrapyramidal symptoms is essential, as they can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment.