When caring for a client taking quetiapine, which symptom indicates an adverse effect?

When evaluating the potential adverse effects of quetiapine, fever can indicate a serious condition known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), which is a rare but life-threatening side effect of antipsychotic medications. NMS is characterized by symptoms such as hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction. The presence of fever in a patient taking quetiapine should raise concern and prompt the healthcare provider to investigate further.

Drowsiness is a common and expected side effect of quetiapine, as it is often used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, where sedation can be beneficial. Stooped posture can be associated with extrapyramidal symptoms or tardive dyskinesia, though these are not immediate signs of a serious adverse reaction. Increased appetite may also occur and is often seen with medications in the atypical antipsychotic category, but it is generally not considered a critical adverse effect. Therefore, the presence of fever in this context is the most concerning symptom, indicating a potential adverse effect that warrants immediate attention.