A client taking sertraline is prescribed tramadol for pain. The client becomes agitated, sweaty, febrile, and develops muscle rigidity and exaggerated reflexes. Which complication should the nurse suspect?

Correct answer: B. Serotonin syndrome

  • A. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
  • B. Serotonin syndrome
  • C. Anticholinergic toxicity
  • D. Lithium toxicity

Explanation

Sertraline and tramadol can increase serotonin activity, and agitation, sweating, fever, rigidity, and hyperreflexia suggest serotonin syndrome. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is more closely associated with dopamine-blocking drugs and usually has marked muscle rigidity without the same serotonergic pattern.

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