What is a significant side effect the nurse should monitor in a client receiving praziquantel?

Praziquantel is an anthelmintic medication used to treat various parasitic infections, particularly those caused by schistosomes and other flatworms. One of the common side effects associated with praziquantel is gastrointestinal disturbances, particularly nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can occur as the body reacts to the medication as well as to the effects of the dying parasites.

Monitoring for nausea and vomiting is important because they can lead to dehydration and can affect the client’s ability to maintain adequate nutrition and fluid balance. Detecting these symptoms early allows healthcare providers to manage them effectively, ensuring that the client may continue with the treatment regimen as needed.

While elevated liver enzymes and severe allergic reactions are also valid concerns that can arise with various medications, they are not as commonly observed specifically with praziquantel as nausea and vomiting. Increased menstrual bleeding is not typically associated with this medication, making it an unlikely side effect to monitor in this context. Hence, nausea and vomiting stand out as significant side effects to watch for when administering praziquantel.