Extrapyramidal side effects of metoclopramide in outpatient surgery patients

Metoclopramide frequently is used as an antiemetic for patients undergoing surgery. Although adverse reactions are rare, a potential exists for extrapyramidal side effects to occur. Nurses in both the preoperative and postoperative areas must recognize the symptoms and initiate appropriate treatment. Three case scenarios are presented that describe patients undergoing surgery in the outpatient setting who experienced extrapyramidal side effects after preoperative administration of intravenous metoclopramide. The scenarios illustrate the potential symptoms that may occur and their management.