What is the medical term for when a client on antipsychotic medication has their eyes fixed in an upward position?

The term for when a client on antipsychotic medication has their eyes fixed in an upward position is oculogyric crisis. This condition is a type of dystonic reaction, which can occur as a side effect of antipsychotic medications. During an oculogyric crisis, the muscles controlling eye movement contract involuntarily, causing the eyes to roll upward. This may be accompanied by other symptoms of muscle rigidity or spasms.

Understanding this condition is crucial for caregivers and healthcare providers, as it requires immediate attention and may necessitate adjustments in the medication regimen or the use of antiparkinsonian agents to alleviate the effects.

In contrast, tardive dyskinesia refers to involuntary movements, typically of the face and extremities, that develop after long-term use of antipsychotics. Akathisia involves an inner sense of restlessness and an uncontrollable urge to be in constant motion. Dystonia generally describes sustained muscle contractions in various parts of the body but is a broader term that does not specifically refer to the fixed gaze seen in oculogyric crises. Recognizing and distinguishing these conditions is essential for appropriate management and support for individuals receiving treatment with antipsychotic medications.