EPS vs TD

[PsychRN29]

I'm a new grad working on a child/psych unit and Im confused about the difference between EPS symptoms and tardive dyskinesia. How does each present in a child? Is Cogentin used to treat both? What about ativan or benadryl?

Thanks

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

EPS symptoms include dystonia, akathesia and pseudoparkinsonism (spasms, twitches and tremors) that appear earlier on than TD in treatment and can be treated. Artane, Cogentin and Benadryl are anticholinergics and can be used to treat EPS. Ativan is a benzo and not really a first-line EPS treatment. If you're thinking about the Haldol/Ativan/Cogentin combo for dangerously psychotic patients, the Ativan is in there for the sedative effects (i.e., to knock them out); the Cogentin manages the EPS.

TD (repetitive, assymetrical muscle movements) is a long-term chronic condition that occurs over a longer period of time. It can be difficult to treat and potentially be irreversible so the goal is minimizing the risk of TD when possible. Here, a benzo might help with muscle spams.

I'm sure someone who knows more about it than I do will be along to give more info :)

[ccoombs]

EPS refers to a broader range of symptoms such as dystonia, akathisia, and pseudoparkinsonism. Tardive Dyskinesia is a more specific, often irreversible disorder that causes bizarre facial grimacing, involuntary tongue rolling, lip smacking, and pill rolling. Cogentin, Artane, or Benadryl are commonly prescribed for most EPS, benzos are sometimes prescribed for Akathisia. there are a variety of approaches to managing TD symptoms.

[ccoombs]

ha, I took too long responding.