Final answer:
When administering metoclopramide post-bowel surgery, a nurse should monitor for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), which are among the notable adverse effects of this medication.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse who is caring for a client prescribed metoclopramide following bowel surgery should monitor for various adverse effects (AE). Metoclopramide is a medication commonly used to treat nausea and to stimulate bowel movements after surgery. One specific AE that the nurse should monitor for with metoclopramide use is extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS).
EPS include a range of symptoms such as dystonia, akathisia, parkinsonism, and tardive dyskinesia. They are associated with drugs that affect the dopaminergic system in the brain, which is the mechanism through which metoclopramide exerts its prokinetic effects. While other AEs like sedation may occur, EPS are particularly noteworthy due to the potential for long-term complications.
Other options listed may also occur with various medications, but they are less commonly associated with metoclopramide. Therefore, when providing care, it is crucial for the nurse to watch for signs of EPS as part of the comprehensive monitoring plan.