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 states that something has made his body contort into a monster. What action should the nurse take?

A. The client's symptoms, including a laterally contracted position and perception of body contortion, suggest acute dystonia, a known side effect of antipsychotic medications like risperidone. Administering an anticholinergic such as benztropine can help alleviate these symptoms. B. Offering a hot pack for muscle spasms may provide some relief for generalized muscle discomfort but would not specifically address the dystonic reaction. C. Directing the client to occupational therapy may be beneficial for overall treatment but does not address the immediate need to alleviate acute dystonic symptoms. D. Thioridazine is an antipsychotic medication but is not typically used as a first-line treatment for acute dystonia. Administering benztropine, an anticholinergic, would be more appropriate for dystonia associated with risperidone use.