Final answer:
A nurse should monitor for elevated blood sugar levels as a potential side effect of risperidone in a client with schizophrenia.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse caring for a client with schizophrenia who has recently started taking risperidone should monitor for several potential side effects due to its pharmacological action. Risperidone is known to block dopamine receptors as well as serotonin type 2 receptors, which can lead to a range of side effects. Some common side effects include agitation, anxiety, sleep problems, nausea and vomiting, and muscular problems. Among the options provided, the side effect that a nurse should specifically monitor for is elevated blood sugar levels, which is a known side effect of many antipsychotic medications, including risperidone.
It is important to monitor blood sugar levels as antipsychotic medications can increase the risk of diabetes and weight gain. Although the drug also antagonizes other receptors such as alpha-adrenergic and histaminergic H1 receptors, the elevated blood sugar levels are a significant concern requiring regular monitoring.