Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is taking phenylephrine. The nurse should plan to monitor the client for which of the following manifestations as an adverse effect of this medication?

A. Increased drowsiness
B. Increased heart rate
C. Decreased blood pressure
D. Decreased WBC count

Answer 1

The nurse should monitor the client for increased heart rate as an adverse effect of taking phenylephrine.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should monitor the client for increased heart rate as an adverse effect of taking phenylephrine. Phenylephrine is a sympathomimetic drug that acts as an α₁-adrenergic agonist, causing vasoconstriction and increasing blood pressure. This medication can also be used to dilate the pupil and is commonly found in decongestants.