The nurse is caring for a client with a history of breast cancer who is receiving chemotherapy. Which side effect should the nurse monitor for?

Choice A reason: Neutropenia, a low neutrophil count, is a common chemotherapy side effect due to bone marrow suppression, increasing infection risk. Monitoring neutrophil counts is critical, as infections in breast cancer patients can be life-threatening, making it the priority side effect to assess.

Choice B reason: Hypertension is not a typical chemotherapy side effect, though some agents cause cardiovascular effects. Neutropenia is more common, compromising immunity, making it the priority to monitor, as infections pose an immediate threat in breast cancer patients on chemotherapy.

Choice C reason: Hyperkalemia is rare with chemotherapy, except in tumor lysis syndrome. Neutropenia is a frequent side effect, increasing infection risk due to marrow suppression, making it the priority to monitor, as it directly impacts patient safety during breast cancer treatment.

Choice D reason: Weight gain is not a primary chemotherapy side effect; weight loss is more common due to nausea. Neutropenia is critical to monitor, as low neutrophils increase infection risk, requiring urgent intervention in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Choice A reason: Sexual dysfunction is a common SSRI side effect, as increased serotonin inhibits sexual arousal and orgasm. Monitoring is critical, as it affects adherence in depression treatment, requiring dose adjustments or alternative therapies, making it the priority side effect to assess.

Choice B reason: Hypotension is less common with SSRIs, though orthostatic changes may occur. Sexual dysfunction is more frequent, impacting quality of life and treatment adherence in depression, making it the priority to monitor, as it directly affects patient compliance and outcomes.

Choice C reason: Hyperglycemia is not a typical SSRI side effect, though metabolic changes are rare. Sexual dysfunction is a prevalent issue, reducing adherence in depression treatment, making it the priority to monitor, as it significantly impacts patient satisfaction and therapy continuation.

Choice D reason: Peripheral edema is rare with SSRIs, which primarily affect serotonin pathways. Sexual dysfunction is a common side effect, compromising adherence in depression management, making it the priority to monitor, as it directly influences treatment success and patient well-being.