A male client is admitted to the psychiatric unit for recurrent negative symptoms of chronic schizophrenia and medication adjustment of risperidone. When the client walks to the nurse’s station in a laterally contracted position, he reports that something has made his body contort into a monster. Which action should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Directing the client to occupational therapy is not appropriate in this acute situation. The client is experiencing dystonia, a serious extrapyramidal side effect of risperidone, which requires immediate pharmacological intervention. Distraction does not address the underlying cause and could delay necessary treatment. Choice B reason: Administering benztropine, an anticholinergic medication, is the correct action because it rapidly relieves acute dystonia. Dystonia involves painful, involuntary muscle contractions that can cause abnormal postures. Benztropine counteracts the dopamine blockade caused by antipsychotics, restoring balance and relieving symptoms. This intervention directly addresses the client’s urgent need. Choice C reason: Offering a hot pack for muscle spasms may provide minor comfort but does not treat the underlying neurochemical imbalance causing dystonia. This option is supportive but insufficient as a primary intervention. Choice D reason: Administering thioridazine, another antipsychotic, would worsen extrapyramidal symptoms rather than relieve them. Increasing dopamine blockade would intensify dystonia, making this option harmful.