Final answer:
Patients taking valproic acid for seizure disorders should monitor for adverse effects like nausea and vomiting and report them as they can affect medication adherence and overall health.
Step-by-step explanation:
When providing teaching for a client with a new prescription for valproic acid, which is used to treat seizure disorders, it is essential to monitor for several potential adverse effects. Some of the common side effects of valproic acid include nausea and vomiting, which are important to report and monitor as they can impact the patient's overall health and adherence to the medication regimen. Additionally, the nurse should inform the client to be aware of other possible side effects such as headache, muscle pain, and blurred vision, though nausea and vomiting are most commonly associated with the initiation of valproic acid therapy.